Ken Paxton Re-Ups His Probe Into Texas Data Centers’ Water Usage
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sent letters to more than 156 data center developments seeking information about their water use as part of a statewide investigation. The effort follows Governor Greg Abbott’s temporary halt on data center permits pending an electric-grid audit, amid growing concerns about water consumption, energy reliability and environmental impacts.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has expanded an investigation into data centers under development across the state by directing more than 156 projects to provide information about their water usage. Paxton said the inquiry is intended to ensure developers comply with state law and protect Texas communities and natural resources, while data center operators have said some did not receive the state’s survey.
The investigation comes as data center growth becomes a political issue in the state Senate race. Democrat James Talarico has criticized Paxton’s support for industry tax breaks and alleged ties to developers, while Governor Greg Abbott has halted data center permits until the Electric Reliability Council of Texas completes an audit of their effects on the power grid and natural resources. State law limits potential fines for failing to answer water surveys but may allow companies to lose access to state funding and environmental permits.