Texas Public Utility Commission pressured over 765‑kV transmission line and data‑center regulations

State Senators Kevin Sparks and Brad Buckley have asked the Texas Public Utility Commission (PUCT) to postpone a final decision on the 765‑kV Strategic Transmission Expansion Plan (STEP) until after the 2027 legislative session. They cite the plan’s near‑$100 billion lifetime cost, permanent impact on thousands of landowners, and the assumption that future generation will be dominated by wind and solar without accounting for gas scenarios. PUCT commissioners previously delayed a decision on the first segment of the project pending review of the third segment.

Governor Greg Abbott, in a June 10 letter to PUCT Chair Thomas Gleeson, called for stricter regulation of new data centers, demanding they cover full grid‑infrastructure costs, protect residential electricity rates, and conserve water. The governor’s mandates aim to prevent data‑center growth from compromising grid reliability and affordability for Texans. Both actions reflect heightened scrutiny of large‑scale infrastructure projects by Texas regulators.