Texas Voters Express Alarm Over Data Center Growth

A new University of Houston poll shows majority opposition to data centers amid concerns over utility demands.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Data Centers

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a monolithic, blocky building and large utility pipes on a dry plain, representing data center infrastructure concerns. — A University of Houston poll shows that over 80% of Texas voters are concerned about the water and electricity usage of data centers. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe the expansion of data centers in your area is harming local utility resources?

Over 80% of likely Texas voters are concerned about the impact of data centers on the state's electricity and water resources. This sentiment comes as the state manages a portfolio of 660 planned or operating facilities.

Why it matters

The survey reflects growing public skepticism toward the industry, which consumes significant amounts of power and water. Despite this, environmental groups allege that 16 permit applications were approved after Governor Greg Abbott ordered a halt to new projects.

There are at least 660 data centers currently planned or operating across Texas. While the governor directed environmental regulators to stop issuing new permits in September 2026, critics claim 16 applications have been approved since that order.

The players

Greg Abbott

As the Governor of Texas, he has overseen the state's policy toward technology infrastructure since 2015.

University of Houston Hobby School of Public Affairs

This academic institution conducts research and polling to provide insight into public policy and voter sentiment in Texas.

The details

The survey results indicate that more than two-thirds of likely voters are extremely or very concerned about the prevalence of these facilities. Only one-third of respondents believe data centers contribute positively to tax revenue or job creation in the state.

2015: Governor Greg Abbott signed legislation to expand tax breaks for data center projects.
September 2026: The governor directed state environmental regulators to halt new facility permits.
October 2026: The University of Houston published the results of its public opinion poll.

The Tech Race

This public backlash marks a departure from the pro-growth strategy established by the 2015 Texas tax break legislation for data centers. The state now faces a conflict between its legacy of providing infrastructure incentives and the rising demand for utility conservation.

Residents may see fewer new data center developments if the state successfully enforces the permit freeze. However, ongoing concerns regarding electricity and water usage suggest that citizens could continue to see utility policy debates in their local communities.

The takeaway

Texas voters are increasingly prioritizing resource conservation over the potential tax and job benefits of large-scale tech infrastructure. Residents interested in regional utility availability should monitor future state regulatory decisions regarding environmental permits.