Abbott Says 1,800 Texas AI Data Center Projects Deserve Backlash as 70% Oppose Nearby Sites
Updated
Updated · Business Insider · Aug 23
Abbott Says 1,800 Texas AI Data Center Projects Deserve Backlash as 70% Oppose Nearby Sites
3 articles · Updated · Business Insider · Aug 23
Summary
Abbott said AI data center developers "dug their own grave" and earned the backlash, arguing they moved too fast and failed to win local support before pursuing projects.
70% of Americans oppose AI data centers in their area, Gallup found, reflecting concerns over environmental damage, higher utility costs, water use and noise from facilities that can span hundreds of acres.
Texas has already tightened its stance: Abbott said this month his administration halted about 1,800 AI data center projects and pushed new standards to shield residents from grid and infrastructure costs.
The shift puts Abbott at odds with the broader federal push, as the Trump administration accelerates permits and backs the $500 billion Stargate Project to expand hyperscale AI infrastructure nationwide.