Texas Gov. Greg Abbott released a broad set of proposals Wednesday aimed at regulating the growth of data centers — months after declaring his state the “epicenter” of artificial intelligence development.
Abbott (R) said in a letter to state electricity officials that the unprecedented growth of data centers and their major energy needs require “oversight” to shield Texans from higher electricity costs. He directed state electricity officials to send him a memo on actions and recommendations by July 17.
“As Texas continues to welcome innovation and investment, we must ensure that growth strengthens our people and their quality of life without placing undue burdens on Texans and local communities,” Abbott wrote.
Plans for a data center boom in Texas have been cheered by Abbott and other leaders in recent years. But local opposition has been bubbling up, and officials in Hill County southwest of Dallas passed a one-year moratorium on data center construction in May. The county recently rescinded that ban after being sued.