Harris County approves new data center monitoring measures as power demand grows
Harris County commissioners unanimously approved three motions to improve county tracking of major data center projects, including notifications when projects submit traffic analyses, permit applications or fire code plans. Officials are also seeking changes to state law and reviewing the county's authority as rapid data center growth drives higher electricity demand in the Houston region.
The Harris County Commissioners Court unanimously approved three measures designed to give county officials earlier notice of major data center developments. County offices will notify commissioners when projects submit traffic studies, permit applications or fire code plans, while county staff will advocate for changes in state law and prepare a report on the county's authority to oversee the industry.
Harris County has 46 operating data centers and at least six more in development or other planning stages. CenterPoint Energy expects to connect 8 gigawatts of new data center load in the Houston area by 2029, followed by roughly 4 additional gigawatts, potentially increasing peak demand in its service area by about 50%. KHOU energy expert Ed Herz said data center growth is contributing to higher electricity costs across Texas, although he said projects may increasingly use dedicated power sources, such as natural gas generation. He also said Harris County may face fewer water-related constraints than other parts of the state.