Gov. Abbott orders data center audits

News Clip0:35KCENNews·TX·8/3/2026

Governor Greg Abbott has ordered an audit for all planned data centers in Texas before they can connect to the state's power grid. This directive to the Public Utility Commission of Texas and ERCOT aims to protect Texans' safety and quality of life, as data centers account for 90% of current power requests.

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Gov: Governor Greg Abbott, Public Utility Commission of Texas, ERCOT

Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Public Utility Commission of Texas and ERCOT to audit all planned data centers seeking connection to the state's power grid. This order mandates that any project failing to meet compliance requirements will be denied grid access. Abbott stated that data centers represent 90% of current power requests, collectively demanding enough electricity to power nearly every home in the country. The governor emphasized that the primary goal of this initiative is to safeguard the safety and quality of life for Texans.