156 Texas data centers warned to comply with water use reporting requirements
The Texas attorney general’s office sent compliance letters to 156 data center developments in more than 30 counties, reminding them to complete required water-use surveys. The letters are part of a statewide audit ordered by Gov. Greg Abbott, who paused approvals for new data centers until regulators assess their effects on the power grid and water resources.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office sent letters to 156 data center developments urging them to comply with water-use reporting requirements administered by the Texas Water Development Board. The developments are located in more than 30 counties, and failure to respond could lead to fines or make some projects ineligible for permits and renewals.
The enforcement effort follows Gov. Greg Abbott’s order halting approvals for new data center projects while the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Texas Water Development Board complete a statewide audit. The review is examining potential impacts on Texas’ electricity grid and natural resources, including water supplies.