Texas counties push for say in where data centers can be built
Texas counties, through the Texas Association of Counties, are advocating for legislation to gain more control over data center development locations. This push follows new state regulations introduced by Governor Greg Abbott, which include requirements for companies regarding power grid infrastructure, noise limits, and water recycling. Local leaders argue these new rules are insufficient to address environmental concerns and other local impacts.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently paused new data center growth for review, after which AI and tech companies including OpenAI, Meta, and Oracle agreed to comply with new state regulations. These rules mandate that companies pay for their own power grid infrastructure, limit noise near neighborhoods, and recycle the water they use.
However, local leaders like Grayson County Judge Bruce Dorsey argue that these regulations do not fully address the issues data centers pose to local communities. Dorsey specifically highlighted concerns about heavy metal concentrations in wastewater being discharged into local creeks, noting that state standards may not meet local environmental requirements.
In response, local governments across Texas, represented by the Texas Association of Counties, are actively seeking new legislation. Their goal is to empower counties with a greater say in the placement and development of data centers within their communities, asserting that despite Texas's property rights owner state status, large industries like data centers require specific local regulations.