FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 10, 2026
Contact: Jordan Goodrich, jordan.goodrich@sierraclub.org
AUSTIN, Texas - Today, Gov. Abbott made recommendations on data center regulations in Texas.
In response, Cyrus Reed, Legislative and Conservation Director of the Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter, issued the following statement:
"We welcome Gov. Abbott's recognition that Texas must take a proactive approach to managing the rapid growth of data centers and their impacts on our electric grid, water resources, and communities. However, we caution against the call for onsite power generation - which is often polluting gas plants - and encourage leaders to push for clean energy generation standards and investments, including demand-side management to help consumers and reduce stress on the grid.
Recently, the Lone Star Chapter submitted recommendations to state leaders and lawmakers during legislative discussions on data centers, outlining opportunities to protect grid reliability, water resources, air quality, and consumers. Policymakers from both political parties are increasingly recognizing the need for common sense safeguards for the resources Texans rely on every day. This is a bipartisan issue that affects the affordability and reliability of our electric system, the availability of water, local air quality, and the long-term resilience of communities.
The Sierra Club and our partners have called for thoughtful planning and accountability measures to address the impacts of large-scale data center development. We remain committed to working with Gov. Abbott, the Public Utility Commission, ERCOT, and Texas state legislators to advance practical solutions that protect Texas families while ensuring that new development pays its fair and full share and operates in a manner that supports public interest and public health. Now is the time for the PUCT to act where it can, while also getting ready for the upcoming legislative session.”
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