Thousands of diesel generators complicate Texas's AI data center crackdown

Texas Governor Greg Abbott ordered an audit of data centers seeking grid connections and paused permits, but the NAACP says thousands of diesel generators and on-site power plants fall under minor "dry cleaner" permits, bypassing scrutiny. At least 38 Texas data centers have obtained such permits since 2024, covering over 2,100 generators.

• At least 38 Texas data centers obtained minor-source permits for on-site power since 2024, covering over 2,100 diesel generators
• OpenAI's Stargate campus in Abilene built 10 gas turbines and 62 backup diesel generators, seeking approval for 41 more turbines and 18 generators
• A CyrusOne data center in Whitney estimated 249.1 tons of NOx annually, just under the 250-ton threshold
• The NAACP sent Abbott a letter and a notice of intent to sue Vantage Data Centers and VoltaGrid