Data center projects face uncertainty as Gov. Abbott orders statewide audit
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered a statewide audit of all data centers planning to connect to the state's power grid, effectively pausing new connections. The audit will examine water and power usage, tax breaks, and community impacts. This comes as residents in Bastrop County are actively opposing a proposed data center project from Pacifico Energy.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has temporarily halted new data center connections to the state's power grid, directing the Public Utility Commission and Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to conduct a comprehensive audit. The audit aims to assess the potential impacts of data center projects on the state's power and water resources, evaluate the tax breaks developers receive, and consider the effects on surrounding communities.
This statewide directive comes amidst growing concerns and local opposition to specific data center developments. Linda Curtis, a Bastrop County resident and founder of the League of Independent Voters of Texas, voiced strong opposition to an existing construction project and a proposed data center by Pacifico Energy in Bastrop County. Residents are reportedly in a "frenzy" as they seek ways to prevent the Pacifico Energy project from moving forward, which is currently under review by county leaders.