Texas legislature studies data center resources
The Texas legislature held a committee hearing to study data center resources. Industry leaders testified to address concerns regarding water and electricity consumption, and also discussed data security and surveillance. They aimed to dispel misinformation about AI infrastructure development.
The Texas State Senate Water, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee conducted a marathon hearing to examine data center resources and counter misinformation surrounding AI infrastructure development. Industry representatives, including "EM CEO Michael McNamara" (whose company operates data centers in Abilene, Childress, and Turkey) and Ryan Keith of QTS Data Centers, provided testimony.
McNamara asserted that the region does not face a water shortage and highlighted his company's investments in sustainable water projects. He stated their data centers use under 25,000 gallons of water daily, contributing to a net gain for the local water supply. Keith from QTS Data Centers clarified that his company fully funds its power infrastructure and electricity consumption, ensuring that local residents or other ratepayers would not subsidize their operations. Senator Charles Perry, the committee chairman, sought to address what he termed "misinformation on the Internet." Lawmakers also questioned executives on matters of security investment and surveillance, emphasizing the need for data center partners who do not surveil citizens.