The state of Texas has suspended the approval process for new data centers that seek to connect to the state's electrical grid. This decision, directed by Governor Greg Abbott, aims to ensure thorough evaluations of water usage and other critical factors before any new projects can proceed.
Data centers are known to consume millions of gallons of water daily for cooling purposes, a figure that can vary significantly based on the technology employed. The audit will examine not only water consumption but also electricity demand, noise control, light management, tax incentives, and ownership information.
In North Texas, where water resources are managed through regional providers, the introduction of large industrial users like data centers requires careful long-term planning. Currently, there are at least 248 data center projects proposed statewide, including six located near Fort Worth. The Dallas-Fort Worth area ranks as the second largest data center hub in the United States.
The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is currently monitoring over 1,800 projects in its connection queue, representing more than 474 gigawatts of demand, which is over five times the grid's peak demand record. Governor Abbott noted that approximately 90 percent of these new requests are for data centers.
Melissa is about 57 miles northeast of Fort Worth.
