.png){kind=logo}
Feb 13, 2025 | Posted by Nolan Turner
What's causing the growth in data centers in Austin, TX? The answer is AI.
Data centers and large AI consumers, like the Texas Advanced Computing Center’s supercomputers, require enormous amounts of energy and water, raising environmental concerns. Our research reveals there are 386 data centers in Texas, with 47 in the Austin area alone - 13 of which have expansion plans and 8 under construction.
Environmental groups like Environment Texas are concerned about the strain on water and energy resources. As Baxtel shared with KVUE, "What's causing the growth in data centers is really driven by AI." As AI continues to grow and expand, the power required to run it increases exponentially. Austin area data centers currently have a power capacity of 642 MW, with planned facilities set to add another 1,186 MW - showcasing the massive infrastructure expansion underway.
With Texas’ population growing, the state must find ways to balance economic development with environmental responsibility, including exploring energy efficiency and regulatory measures.
We are proud to see Baxtel's research helping inform this important conversation about the future of tech infrastructure in Texas.
