State Armor

House Lawmakers Weigh Data Center Growth and Its Costs

Texas lawmakers held a hearing to discuss the rapid growth of the data center industry in the state, addressing concerns about electricity demand, water usage, and local control. State agencies proposed methods to manage power grid integration and cost allocation, while public witnesses voiced concerns about environmental impacts and infrastructure costs. The hearing underscored the pressure on lawmakers to determine who bears the costs and what protections are necessary for residents.