Energy

Data center development has picked up in the Austin area, and residents have voiced concerns about water and energy resources related to the construction. But experts say they can use those concerns to get the companies to build more sustainably.

Texas laws taking effect Sept. 1 will change how consumers repair electronic devices, strengthen oversight of residential solar sales and allow certain forms of gold and silver to be used as legal tender.

As more and more data center developers submit proposals to build in Texas, questions about how they will impact Texas' grid and contribute to drought conditions across the state are widespread.

New data centers won't be able to join the Texas power grid until state regulators complete a review of their energy and water usage, under a new directive from the governor.

A plan to build a network of 765 kV transmission lines to bolster the state's power grid has come under intense opposition from landowners in its path and others.

Despite efforts to boost domestic energy production, Mexico will continue to depend on Texas for natural gas, experts said, undermining its stated goals of energy independence.

Texas has 32 proposed natural gas power plants tied to Al data centers, the report found — raising concerns about air pollution, water use and public health as the industry expands.

Ag Commissioner Sid Miller has proposed a temporary moratorium on data center development.

Energy experts say a growth in renewables will help the state's power grid meet increasing demand this summer.

Texas leads the nation in utilities shutting off electricity and natural gas services to customers who can't afford their energy bills, according to a report released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.