Austin Asks for Feedback as It Considers Rules for Large Water Users
Austin Water is seeking public input on proposed requirements for developments that use or are expected to use more than 85 million gallons of water annually. The proposals would require conservation plans, water budgets and reporting, with higher rates possible for customers that exceed their limits; residents specifically raised concerns about data centers and their direct and indirect water use.
Austin Water officials held an open house to gather feedback on policies for high-impact water users as the city prepares for growth and drought. The draft framework would apply to commercial, industrial and manufacturing developments using or projected to use more than 85 million gallons of water per year, requiring conservation plans, annual reporting, water budgets and long-term conservation goals. Customers exceeding their budgets could face higher rates.
The discussion followed a July City Council resolution directing City Manager T.C. Broadnax to provide recommendations to the Climate, Water, Environment, and Parks Committee. Residents including Carol Phillips and Brad Knowles urged the city to account for data centers’ broader water footprint, including water used to generate the electricity powering them. Austin Water Director Shay Ralls Roalson said the proposals are intended for all high-impact water users, not only data centers, and highlighted reclaimed water and on-site reuse as potential ways to reduce drinking-water demand.