Texas Data Centers Skip Water‑Use Reporting, Prompt Legislative Review

Texas lawmakers have raised concerns that the state's rapidly expanding data center industry is not providing adequate information on water consumption. A survey issued by the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Texas Water Development Board reached 341 facilities, but fewer than one‑third responded – only 28 companies representing 92 data centers gave answers, and just 17% replied to the water‑use survey required by law.

Legislators warned that the lack of reliable data hampers planning for water resources and electric‑grid capacity. Rep. Brad Buckley described the information as “bad data, bad study,” while Rep. Jeffrey Barry called the available figures “sparse information.” PUCT program manager Chris Brown noted the low response rate and stressed the need for better data to inform decisions. Governor Greg Abbott has urged utilities to keep any added costs away from customers and suggested requiring more efficient water‑recirculation systems. Google announced its new Texas data centers will use 100% air‑cooled, closed‑loop cooling systems to reduce water demand.