Texas Counties Demand Stricter Regulations for Data Center Growth

County officials and residents across Texas are challenging the rapid expansion of large-scale computing facilities, citing significant strains on local infrastructure and public health. In Brazoria and Morris counties, commissioners courts passed unanimous resolutions demanding that state officials grant local governments more control over development and require independent impact assessments for water and energy consumption.

In Brazoria County, residents reported continuous noise and vibration from a facility developed by Giga Energy Inc., leading the county to request specific setback requirements from schools and residences. Meanwhile, residents in Atascosa County are opposing the proposed 1,500-acre Energy Ranch project, spearheaded by HC Capital Partners and Herrmann Family Companies. The group Atascosa County Against Data Centers is calling for a development pause until the state legislature establishes formal guidelines.

State and local leadership have responded with mixed efficacy. Governor Greg Abbott directed the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas to ensure data centers bear the financial burden of their own power costs. However, Brazoria County Judge L.M. Matt Sebesta Jr. criticized the state government for limiting the authority of local officials to restrict these developments, while the Atascosa County Judge's office noted limited power to prevent land purchases and construction.