The majority of Texans oppose data center construction in their communities
A new poll reveals that 56% of Texans oppose data center construction in their communities, driving state lawmakers to address concerns about grid stability, water scarcity, and rising electric bills. Specific counties like Caldwell and Hays are struggling with data center impacts and limited local control. Legislators are backing a bill to mandate transparency from data centers regarding water usage.
A poll by The Texas Politics Project indicates that a majority of Texans, 56%, oppose the construction of data centers in their communities, with strong opposition noted in rural and suburban areas. The findings have prompted Texas lawmakers to focus on the rapid growth of data centers and their impact on grid stability, water scarcity, and high electric bills across the state.
Rep. Trent Ashby, a member of the Texas House Committee on Natural Resources, highlighted the public's concern over groundwater resources. Caldwell County Judge Hoppy Haden testified before the committee, stating that data center developers have acquired approximately 6,000 acres for four campuses, comprising 18 to 20 data centers. Haden expressed frustration over county governments' limited statutory power to regulate such development, noting that rural, unincorporated counties are often targeted.
Hays County has also passed an industrial high-water resolution to address data center impacts. Lawmakers, including Rep. Brad Buckley, voiced concerns over data centers' lack of transparency, citing that only 17% of data centers responded to an annual survey on projected water use. Consequently, legislators plan to back a bill in the next session to compel data centers to disclose their water consumption and sources, aiming for greater accountability and informed decision-making.