'It's a lot of unanswered questions': Residents seek clarity on AI center water use
Residents near Hamby, Texas, are expressing significant concerns about the water usage of a new AI data center, despite its closed-loop cooling system. They are worried about the impact on local water supply, especially during drought conditions, and are seeking a public meeting with city leaders for answers. Residents feel they were not consulted about the project and want more communication.
Residents in Hamby, Texas, are expressing significant concerns regarding the water consumption of a new AI data center near their community. Despite assurances that the facility uses a closed-loop cooling system with Abilene water, residents like Lacie Rivera highlighted "unanswered questions" about the long-term impact on local water supply, especially given the region's frequent drought conditions.
They are also worried about potential effects on water rates, properties, livestock, and pets. Residents feel they were not consulted prior to the project's development and are now urging City of Abilene leaders to host a public meeting to address their concerns directly and provide more transparent communication. KTXS reported that the City of Abilene has not yet provided a follow-up interview to address these queries.