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Texas Data Center Intel
Latest data center news, projects, power and policy across Texas — updated daily.
Recent Texas data center news
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Batteries saved Texas consumers $683M during 2-day January freeze: Aurora Energy Research
Aurora Energy Research’s report indicates that battery storage in ERCOT saved consumers $683 million during a 2-day freeze in January. Eolian, a Texas-based battery developer, commissioned the research. By 2035, ERCOT could utilize 20 GW of battery energy storage. Texas regulators are working to promote battery participation in the state’s wholesale markets.
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US power demand expected to jump 2.7% this summer, plus 5 other takeaways from FERC’s open meeting
US power demand is projected to rise 2.7% this summer, driven by factors like warmer weather and data center expansions. Total U.S. summer capacity is expected to increase by 3.4%, with Northern Virginia, Dallas, Chicago, Phoenix, and Northern California being key data center markets. Battery storage capacity is anticipated to grow significantly. NOAA forecasts a hotter-than-normal summer. FERC is taking action on transmission incentives and clarifying DR aggregation requirements. Invenergy’s complaint was denied by FERC regarding its PJM power plant. SPP’s planning reserve margin process is under scrutiny. NERC’s cybersecurity proposal for protecting against cyber threats was approved by FERC.
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Tesla data center delay highlights industrywide challenges
Tesla faces delays in constructing its Dojo data center in Austin, impacting Elon Musk’s self-driving vision. Challenges include delivery issues and weather. Industry expert Bob Hopfenberg highlights data center technology and shortage of qualified contractors. Hyperscalers prioritize environmental impact, with companies like Meta, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft aiming for water positivity by 2030 through innovative cooling systems and renewable energy adoption.
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Meta inks deal with Pine Gate for new 204-MW solar project
Meta has partnered with Pine Gate Renewables for the 204-MW Limewood Bell Solar Project in Temple, Texas. Operational in 2026, it supports Meta’s commitment to net zero emissions and renewable energy. This enhances their existing partnership, contributing to Meta’s sustainability goals, including powering their Temple Data Center with 100% renewable energy.
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Microsoft plows $3.3B into data center at former Foxconn site
Microsoft is investing $3.3 billion in a data center at a former Foxconn site in Mount Pleasant. The project aims to create 2,300 jobs by 2025. To address power constraints, Microsoft is partnering with National Grid Renewables to build a 250-megawatt solar project in Wisconsin. The data center will utilize a closed-loop cooling system to recycle water, addressing environmental concerns. Builders and contractors like MasTec and Jacobs Solutions are eyeing opportunities in this expanding sector.
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AI’s impact on facility operations and data center demand
Building operators and real estate managers utilize AI and data analytics for enhanced decision-making in facilities management and data center demand, as discussed at RETCON 2024 in New York. Experts like Josh Panknin from Columbia University caution the importance of data quality and structuring problems appropriately. Companies like Carr Properties and Empire State Realty Trust leverage AI for automating processes and improving decision-making. Demand for data center space rises due to AI growth, attracting investments from companies like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft, and Google. Land and power scarcity drive up lease rates in key data center markets. Cybersecurity concerns regarding data storage are highlighted by experts like MaryJean Koontz.
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Microsoft plows $3.3B into data center at former Foxconn site
Microsoft is investing $3.3 billion in a data center project at a former Foxconn site in Mount Pleasant, expected to create 2,300 construction jobs by 2025. To address power constraints, Microsoft will collaborate with National Grid Renewables on a 250-megawatt solar project in Wisconsin. The data center will utilize a closed-loop cooling system to conserve water. Builders are optimistic about the growth potential in the data center industry.
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Data centers are next target for MasTec, CEO says
MasTec CEO highlights unanticipated surge in data center demand, driven by hyperscalers like Oracle, Google, and Meta. Despite recent losses, company anticipates profitable year with raised revenue guidance. Competitors like Fluor also eye data centers as lucrative sector. Company backlog at $12.83 billion. CEO optimistic about future prospects and strategy.
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Fluor sees opportunity in data center boom
Fluor Corporation is capitalizing on the data center boom, with CEO Constable highlighting a surge in construction akin to onshoring manufacturing. The company’s earnings skyrocketed to $59 million, and its backlog reached a promising $32.7 billion. New contracts, like the $409 million deal with the Air Force, are propelling Fluor’s growth.
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AEP faces 15 GW of new load, driven by Amazon, Google, other data centers: interim CEO Fowke
AEP anticipates 15 GW of new load from data centers like Amazon Web Services and Google, reflecting a growing demand for electricity. Interim CEO Fowke suggests developing new tariffs to support this growth. AEP plans significant capital investments to enhance grid resiliency and manage the anticipated load growth, which could necessitate additional generation and transmission.