Charles Phillips charles@robconews.com Robertson County News ROBERTSON COUNTY — Interest in developing large-scale data centers is increasing across Robertson County, although no individual project has been formally proposed, approved or permitted. Technology companies are reportedly evaluating potential sites throughout the county as demand continues to grow for facilities that support cloud computing, artificial intelligence and other digital services. While no specific developments have been announced locally, industry experts note that modern data center campuses often require hundreds of acres of land and substantial electrical infrastructure to support thousands of computer servers operating around the clock. Unlike traditional commercial developments, data centers are generally measured by the amount of electricity they consume rather than their building size. Smaller facilities may require between 5 and 10 megawatts of power, while newer artificial intelligence and cloud computing campuses frequently demand between 100 and 300 megawatts or more. A 100-megawatt facility can use enough electricity to match the demand of approximately 80,000 homes, depending on local consumption patterns. Beyond electricity, these developments often include multiple server buildings, extensive cooling systems, backup power generation and dedicated electrical substations. Their size and infrastructure needs have made them increasingly attractive to technology companies seeking locations with available land and access to reliable electric transmission. The growing interest has also prompted discussion among rural communities about the potential effects of large-scale industrial development. Residents have expressed concerns about increased electricity demand, water consumption for cooling systems and the long-term impact of rapid industrial growth in areas traditionally known for agriculture and ranching. State leaders have also begun addressing those concerns. Gov. Greg Abbott recently directed the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas to implement additional measures aimed at protecting residential electric customers from costs associated with expanding data center infrastructure. Under the governor’s directive, developers would be expected to fund the electric infrastructure required for their projects rather than shifting those costs to residential ratepayers. Regulators were instructed to recommend additional consumer protections by July 17 and begin reducing residential transmission costs by July 31. Abbott also announced plans to seek legislation during the next legislative session requiring more water-efficient cooling systems, improved reporting of electricity and water usage, the elimination of certain outdated tax incentives and additional standards addressing setbacks and operational noise. Elsewhere in Texas, local governments have begun taking action. The San Marcos City Council recently approved amendments prohibiting new data center developments in all zoning districts. Meanwhile, the Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a temporary review process through Dec. 31 for large industrial developments with significant water demands, including data centers. County officials cited drought conditions, declining aquifer levels and infrastructure concerns while establishing a review board to evaluate potential impacts on water resources, public infrastructure and emergency services. Texas law generally provides counties with limited authority to regulate many large-scale developments in unincorporated areas. If future data center proposals move forward in Robertson County, local officials may have relatively few regulatory options, making public awareness, infrastructure planning.