Most Texans oppose data centers in their communities, poll finds
A new poll from the University of Texas at Austin indicates that most Texans oppose data center construction in their communities. This growing opposition has become a significant political issue, prompting Governor Greg Abbott to call for limits on data center growth and a state House panel to hold a hearing on water usage.
A recent poll conducted by the University of Texas at Austin reveals that 56% of Texans oppose the construction of data centers in their local communities, with 42% expressing strong opposition. Only 29% supported the idea, and 16% were undecided. This survey highlights a growing statewide backlash against the rapid expansion of data centers, particularly in rural areas.
The findings underscore a rapidly evolving political issue for Texas Republicans. Governor Greg Abbott, seeking a fourth term, has acknowledged the concerns by calling for limits on data center growth. He directed state regulators to prevent new data centers from passing electrical infrastructure costs to ratepayers and urged lawmakers to repeal sales tax exemptions for these facilities.
In a related development, a state House panel is currently holding a hearing to address the significant water consumption by data centers. The poll, conducted from June 5-22 among 1,200 registered voters, has a margin of error of +/- 2.83% and represents some of the limited public polling available on data center sentiment.