Data centers not accounted for in Texas 2027 water plan draft, drawing concerns from advocates
The draft of Texas' 2027 State Water Plan is drawing criticism from water protection advocates for failing to account for the growing water consumption of data centers. Researchers estimate data centers could use up to 9% of Texas' total water by 2040, raising concerns about future drought conditions if not addressed in the plan. Advocates are urging the Texas Water Development Board to incorporate data center impacts and future growth projections.
The draft of Texas’ 2027 State Water Plan, developed by the Texas Water Development Board to guide $174 billion in water development projects over 50 years, is facing scrutiny from water protection advocates. Mike Clifford of the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance expressed surprise and concern that the plan does not specifically account for the substantial and growing water usage of data centers.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin project that data centers could consume as much as 9% of Texas’ total water by 2040, potentially surpassing the oil and gas industry’s water use. Clifford emphasized that without including data centers, the plan is incomplete and will fall short of securing the state's water future, especially given recurring drought conditions. He advocated for using projected future growth, rather than just historical data, for planning.
Clifford also suggested that data center companies should ultimately bear any increased costs associated with securing water for their operations, rather than taxpayers. The Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance further recommended that the board consider climate change impacts, prioritize conservation, water reuse efforts, and strengthen protections for Texas aquifers. Texans have until May 29 to submit feedback on the draft plan.