Governor Abbott announces data center compliance with Texas standards
Governor Abbott announced that Stack Infrastructure, Anthropic, and Nightpeak Energy will comply with new statewide data center standards in Texas. These standards aim to protect the electric grid, conserve water, and respect communities. The Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT) and Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) will audit projects for compliance, with EdgeConneX and Stream Data Centers also following these guidelines.
Governor Greg Abbott announced on August 14, 2026, that several data center companies have committed to complying with new statewide standards he established for Texas data center operations. Stack Infrastructure, Anthropic, and Nightpeak Energy were specifically named as companies that will adhere to these guidelines, with Abbott noting that one data center chose to halt operations rather than comply.
The Governor emphasized that these "clear guardrails" ensure data centers protect the electric grid, conserve water, respect communities, and bear their own costs, preventing burdens on Texas families. The directives, issued earlier in the summer, mandate that data centers do not compromise grid reliability, ensure responsible water usage, minimize community impact, and cover infrastructure costs. Abbott directed the Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to enforce these standards, examining and auditing each data center project for compliance before it can proceed. Non-compliant projects will face denial of approval. EdgeConneX and Stream Data Centers were also mentioned as companies that will follow the new PUCT and ERCOT standards.