University of Houston poll shows likely Texas voters' concerns on data centers
A University of Houston poll found that most likely Texas voters are highly concerned that data center growth could increase electricity prices, strain water supplies and contribute to power outages. The issue has become politically divisive, with Democrats expressing substantially greater concern than Republicans and Gov. Greg Abbott moving to pause data center permits.
A University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs poll found that 69% of likely Texas voters are very concerned about data centers’ effects on electricity prices and water supplies, while 65% expressed similar concern about power outages. The survey also found that 76% believe data center construction would increase their electricity bills as local governments collect additional tax revenue, and many respondents expect development to reduce home values.
Mark Jones, a Rice University Baker Institute political science professor and co-author of the report, said attitudes were strongly divided along partisan lines. Data centers and artificial intelligence have emerged as campaign issues in Texas, where Gov. Greg Abbott has moved to pause data center permits after previously promoting the state as an AI hub.