Texas halts new data center approvals pending audit on power, water and tax use

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered a temporary suspension of new data center project approvals across the state. Regulators are required to conduct a comprehensive audit before any projects are allowed to proceed. Developers must demonstrate their electricity and water consumption levels, as well as justify any tax incentives they receive. Abbott emphasized that the interests of Texas residents must take priority in all state decisions. The move comes amid increasing scrutiny over the rapid expansion of data centers in the state.