Texans overwhelmingly reject data centers amid election campaign
In brief
- 57% of Texans oppose data centers, per an August poll.
- A coalition of 1 million voters opposes projects citing water, taxes, and pollution concerns.
- Governor Abbott’s temporary moratorium is seen as inadequate by opponents.
Texas, once a welcoming hub for data centers, now faces a growing backlash that has become a key issue in the midterm elections. A poll in August found 57% of Texans oppose their construction, including 43% of Republicans. A coalition of over a million voters across the political spectrum, including the local NAACP, is pushing to block these projects.
Opposition stems from water consumption in a drought-stricken state, costly tax subsidies (estimated $3.2 billion in lost revenue over two years), and environmental concerns linked to new power plants. Cities like San Marcos have already banned data centers, while projects in Taylor and Temple face legal challenges. Candidates, including Governor Greg Abbott, are now distancing themselves from an industry once embraced.
Abbott has imposed a temporary moratorium on new permits, but critics call it insufficient. With data center electricity demand potentially tenfold by 2030, tensions over water and air quality persist. Existing projects continue advancing as debates over regulation intensify ahead of the vote.
What it changes for you
- EnergyData centers, whose electricity demand could increase tenfold by 2030, are straining Texas energy resources and infrastructure, raising concerns over costs and supply.
- Public SectorTax breaks for data centers now cost $3.2 billion over two years, forcing authorities to reconsider their pro-business policies.
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