Data Center Policy Playbook: Addressing Governance, Water, Air, Energy and Community Needs

As data center development outpaces the state’s permitting and planning processes, Texas lawmakers face decisions that will shape communities and natural resources for decades.

The defining physical infrastructure of the AI era is bringing billions of dollars in investment to Texas, along with public concern about impacts on water, power, and quality of life. Grid interconnection requests have reached roughly 475 GW, about five times current peak demand, with close to 90% tied to data centers.

HARC’s Data Center Policy Playbook offers Texas lawmakers and other stakeholders a research-based roadmap for managing data center growth. Drawing on independent, nonpartisan research and deep ties to Texas communities, the playbook identifies the most productive starting points for data center policy. They fall into three areas: governance and private property, energy and environmental impacts, and community benefits.

The playbook outlines practical policy options for each, including transparency and disclosure requirements, clearer local authority, water and grid protections, air quality and noise standards, ratepayer safeguards, and verifiable community benefits.

Download the playbook to explore the full set of recommendations.

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Small Acreage Landowner Guide to Nearby Data Center Developments

This guide provides small acreage landowners with information and resources to understand potential impacts of nearby industrial and hyperscale data center developments and stay informed about local and state decision-making.