A 1.1M-square-foot data center campus is coming to Westlake. What we know so far
A 1.1 million-square-foot data center campus is planned for Westlake, Texas, developed by Powerhouse. While Westlake officials anticipate economic benefits and minimal environmental impact, nearby Keller residents express frustration over the project's proximity to their homes and the City of Keller's lack of jurisdictional authority. The data center is expected to use 54 million gallons of water annually and will include a 350-megawatt substation.
A multi-building, 1.1 million-square-foot data center campus is slated for Westlake, Texas, on 87.9 acres along Denton Highway, a location that straddles Tarrant and Denton counties. The project, developed by McLean, Va.-based Powerhouse, is expected to feature four buildings. While Westlake officials provided details on the project, including its significant economic benefits through increased revenue and minimal impact on residential property taxes, the construction timeline and specific operating companies remain undisclosed. The land is associated with Hillwood, according to Tarrant Appraisal District records.
The City of Westlake has addressed potential environmental concerns, stating that the data center will not increase electricity and water costs for residents and will not impact the city's water supply. The facility is designed to operate without water for approximately 85% of the year, using 54 million gallons annually for cooling during warmer periods, which is less than a typical Texas golf course. Additionally, the data center paid Oncor to install a 350-megawatt substation, with the additional power benefiting the pump station and future Westlake system expansion. Noise levels are anticipated to be equivalent to a household refrigerator, with developers installing buffers to comply with city ordinances. Traffic impacts are also expected to be minimal, with no more than 75 employees on-site.
Despite these assurances, residents of nearby Keller, Texas, have expressed significant dissatisfaction with the data center's proximity to their city's northern border. Keller Mayor Ross McMullin conveyed residents' frustration via Facebook, clarifying that the City of Keller lacks zoning or land-use authority over the property, as it lies entirely within Westlake's municipal boundaries. McMullin, who was also surprised by the news, pledged to advocate for Keller residents and confirmed that no data centers are currently planned or permitted by right within Keller itself. He is scheduled to meet with Westlake officials.