Abbott wants ban on data centers in rural neighborhoods
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is proposing a ban on data center construction in rural neighborhoods due to concerns about high electricity and water usage, and noise. Several Texas counties are also pushing for legislative action to regulate data center development. A recent poll indicates significant rural support for these measures.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is advocating for a ban on new data center construction in rural Texas neighborhoods, citing public concerns about high electricity and water demands, alongside noise pollution. This call for restrictions comes after Abbott previously promoted Texas as a hub for AI development, indicating a shift in his stance due to escalating local opposition.
A recent poll by the University of Texas at Austin reveals that 62% of rural Texans, a key Republican voting bloc, support the proposed ban. This widespread sentiment has prompted seven counties—Hays, Caldwell, Henderson, Hill, Hood, Somervell, and Van Zandt—to request either a special legislative session or to prioritize data center regulation in the upcoming January legislative session.
At a recent East Texas campaign event, Governor Abbott further detailed his proposed restrictions, stating that future data centers must "bring their own power, reuse their own water, and do it in a way that reduces electricity costs for residents across our state." The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) reports that over 480 "large" data centers have sought permission to connect to the state's power grid through 2032, highlighting the significant energy demands associated with the industry.