Officials: Data center deal could net billions for Taylor area
Taylor officials are preparing to vote on an annexation and development agreement with Big Watt Digital and PowerHouse Data Centers for the 500-megawatt Taylor Technology Campus. The project could generate billions in economic activity and tax revenue, but residents have raised concerns about the gas-powered plant, noise, water use and zoning process, while an opposition coalition has pursued legal action over a proposed permitting ban.
The Taylor City Council is scheduled to vote Oct. 8 on an annexation and development agreement with Big Watt Digital and PowerHouse Data Centers for the 665-acre Taylor Technology Campus near FM 112. The planned 500-megawatt data center, which would include on-site power generation, is projected to create nearly 20,000 construction jobs, generate $1.38 billion in city tax revenue over 20 years and provide more than $28 million in community benefits.
The revised agreement includes a 700-foot setback, screening, a closed-loop water system, wastewater infrastructure funding and a 65-decibel noise limit. Residents and the group Halt Taylor Data Centers continue to oppose the development, citing the proposed gas-fueled generation plant and concerns about zoning and the Planning and Zoning Commission being bypassed. The group submitted a petition seeking tougher data center regulations and a temporary permitting ban, and has filed legal action to force the issue onto the November ballot.