Abbott recommends sweeping data center regulation, including eliminating sales tax exemption

Abbott moves to curb data center costs for Texans

Gov. Greg Abbott is ordering state agencies to shield residential ratepayers from data center expansion costs.

Texas Governor Seeks Consumer Protection From Data Center Costs

(Bloomberg) — Texas Governor Greg Abbott called on state regulators to better protect ratepayers from shouldering the costs of the data center buildout, the latest sign of growing political scrutiny over the AI-driven surge in electricity demand.

Gov. Greg Abbott calls for Texas energy regulators to rein in data centers

The governor said the PUCT and ERCOT must take steps to prevent the cost of data center infrastructure from being passed on to electricity customers.

Abbott letter directs energy regulators to protect Texans from data center costs

Rep. Cody Harris (R-Palestine) said he appreciated the governor’s “pro-active approach.”

Gov. Abbott directs ratepayer protections from data center infrastructure costs

AUSTIN (KVIA) -- Wednesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed state utility officials to protect residents from paying for data center infrastructure costs. “Data centers must operate in ways that reduce costs for residential electricity customers, do not drain water needed for our communities, and take into consideration the needs of our neighborhoods,” said Gov. Abbott in a statement. He sent a letter to the Public Utility Commission of Texa…

Greg Abbott recommends data center industry crack down

The recommendations for legislative action amount to a striking call for industry regulation by the Republican governor in a state that has long prided itself on being a favorable environment for business.