Although originally a strong supporter of data centers, Texas Governor Abbott has now changed his view to caution, with respect to the region’s electricity supplies and other considerations. It is reported that Texas has put a pause on all 1,800 data center projects in the state. Abbott points to the fact that the total electricity grid requests from these centers would reach five times the all-time peak power demand in the state.
There are accusations that he was bending to Chinese pressure, which he denies, pointing to the outpouring of opposition from the public. “I haven’t done it because of anything said by China. I’ve done it by listening to and working with constituents and seeing the real problems they’re facing in their communities,” according to an Aug. 29 Business Insider report.
