Data Center Signal is tracking 5 clips about Big Watt Digital data center developments across 2 states, including TX, SD.
The Taylor City Council approved a $165 million budget, while also discussing a proposed data center project in closed session. This occurred amidst a rally by the Halt Taylor Data Center Coalition, which opposes the project and advocates for stronger local ordinances. These local developments are set against the backdrop of a statewide moratorium on data centers declared by Gov. Greg Abbott.
Developers of Project Mustang, Big Watt Digital and PowerHouse Data Centers, have withdrawn their annexation and zoning request with the city of Taylor, Texas, following significant resident pushback. The project, which includes a data center and gas plant, will now proceed in Williamson County where zoning authority is limited. Taylor residents have previously petitioned for a moratorium on data center developments and the city is updating its zoning code to address concerns.
The South Dakota Legislative Research Council (LRC) released a draft issue memorandum on hyperscale data centers, emphasizing the need for transparency from developers regarding resource demands and impacts. The memo discusses concerns over power and water usage, potential stranded assets, noise and air pollution, and the actual job creation from data centers. It highlights South Dakota's 2026 Senate Bill 135, which requires water usage reporting, as a step towards greater transparency.
The Taylor Planning & Zoning Commission has tabled a vote on a zoning amendment for Project Mustang, a proposed 665-acre data center and power plant. This 90-day delay allows the city to develop new digital infrastructure guidelines amidst community opposition and Governor Abbott's call for a statewide data center moratorium. Developers, Powerhouse and Big Watt Digital, stated they plan to proceed with the project regardless of city annexation.
The City of Taylor, Texas, is advancing a 665-acre data center project known as "Project Mustang" despite significant resident opposition and state-level scrutiny. The city is also updating its zoning code to regulate large-scale digital infrastructure projects, with a vote expected in September. A resident-led petition for a temporary moratorium on data centers was rejected by the City Council.