Reader Calls for Stricter Rules on Texas Data Center Water Usage
A Dallas News reader expressed concern over data centers in Texas failing to comply with state-mandated information requests regarding water usage. The reader advocated for more stringent measures, suggesting that prohibiting operation until information is provided would create a greater sense of urgency than the threat of criminal investigations.
A reader of The Dallas Morning News responded to a story revealing that fewer than 30% of data centers in Texas complied with state-issued requests for information on their water usage. The article had indicated that "scores of data center companies could face criminal investigations" for their non-compliance.
The reader emphasized the importance of water as "one of this state’s most vulnerable resources" and expressed disappointment at the lack of transparency from these companies. They argued that the threat of criminal investigations is insufficient to drive compliance, proposing instead that the state should prohibit data centers from operating until they provide the mandated water usage information, thereby creating a stronger sense of urgency.