Harris County commissioners vote to start monitoring data center development.
Harris County commissioners voted to begin monitoring data center development as the county’s number of facilities continues to grow. The report says data centers are increasing peak electricity demand and could raise power costs for Texas consumers.
Harris County commissioners voted to start monitoring data center development amid continued growth in the industry. County officials say 43 data centers are already operating in Harris County, with additional facilities expected to be built.
KHOU 11 energy expert Ed Herz reported that data centers across Texas are increasing peak electricity demand by about 50%. Their combined electricity use is described as comparable to the consumption of El Paso, San Antonio and Nacogdoches, raising concerns that continued expansion could increase electricity costs for Texans.