Meta has agreed to adhere to Texas's standards for data centers, which require developers to cover their own grid interconnection and infrastructure costs, as well as utilize closed-loop water systems. Texas Governor Greg Abbott introduced these regulations amid concerns over energy costs and water usage associated with the rapid growth of data centers in the state. Meta stated it would pay for the full costs of energy and water use at its facilities.
Adrian Shelley, director of Public Citizen in Texas, expressed concerns that while the regulations may satisfy developers, they do not address community worries. He noted that Meta's proposed data center in El Paso would not be subject to Abbott's standards due to its location outside the Electric Reliability Council grid.
Additionally, Abbott has implemented a moratorium on new data centers while an audit is conducted on AI facilities seeking to connect to the state's grid. Abbott reported that there are over 474 gigawatts of requests to connect to the Texas energy grid, with 90% from data centers.
In related news, Amazon is facing criticism for its plans to build a data center in Pecos County, Texas, which may be powered by a large natural gas power plant. This facility could potentially become one of the largest sources of pollution in the U.S., with emissions projected at up to 33 million tons of carbon dioxide annually. Amazon has stated that the facility will also utilize solar and battery storage to power its operations.
Critics, including Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen, have called for stricter regulations on data center developments to mitigate environmental impacts. Van Hollen has been monitoring the proposed natural gas plant and has urged developers to consider carbon capture and emission offsets.
In other news, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve has reached its lowest level since January 1983, with 298.7 million barrels reported as of last week. The Biden administration has faced criticism for the drawdown of reserves, which Republicans argue could hinder the ability to respond to energy crises. Additionally, the White House has extended the Jones Act waiver for 90 days, allowing for continued access to essential resources while facing scrutiny from the maritime industry regarding its impact on domestic shipping jobs.