More data on the centers: Grimes County residents brace for fight with possible data center at Gibbons Creek

Millennium Power is proposing a new data center project at the site of the former Gibbons Creek Steam Electric Station in Grimes County, Texas, sparking worry among local residents. Jennifer Rymer emphasized the need for public forums and elected leaders to protect the community's interests. Julie Hernandez, representing Grimes County Citizens for Responsible Development, highlighted concerns about the already strained electric grid. Rymer also voiced apprehension regarding the impact on the water table, advocating for developers to prioritize long-term planning to avoid such issues. Dean Wiley raised the issue of noise pollution, specifically infrasound, which, though inaudible to humans, can cause anxiety and unease. A county official stated that several new infrastructure and environmental regulations, including an international residential code, have been adopted in the past two years, which may help. However, state law restricts counties from enacting specific data center or solar farm regulations, treating them under general commercial permitting. The official confirmed that no permits for the proposed data center have been applied for yet, and residents are urging their leaders to protect the county's natural resources.