Texans overwhelmingly skeptical of data centers, new survey finds
A University of Houston survey found that 79% of likely Texas voters support limiting the number of data centers in the state, with electricity prices, water consumption and power outages among their main concerns. The article also reports that Gov. Greg Abbott has paused data center grid-connection approvals and directed the Texas Water Development Board to require water-use reporting while projects undergo an audit.
A new University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs survey found widespread skepticism among Texas voters toward data center and artificial intelligence expansion. Seventy-nine percent of respondents supported limiting the number of data centers in the state, while 99% said proposed facilities should pay for electric-grid expansions needed to serve them. Major concerns included electricity prices, water supplies, resource consumption and the potential for more power outages.
The survey highlights a disconnect between Texas officials who have promoted data center growth and voters who are increasingly concerned about its impacts. The article says Gov. Greg Abbott has responded by pausing data center grid-connection approvals and directing the Texas Water Development Board to require facilities to report water usage pending an audit, while declining to call a special legislative session on the issue.