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Texas leads nation in proposed power plants for data centers, which would emit large amounts of greenhouse gases
By Texas Tribune, By Alejandra Martinez, Graphics By Hien An Ngo at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate)
· July 1, 2026
· 6 min read
Texas is poised to lead the nation in power plants built to fuel data centers, according to a new report from an environmental watchdog group that warns the plants plan to emit tons of greenhouse gases and air pollution that will cause significant climate impacts and risks to human health. At lea...
Key takeaway The report comes as Texas finds itself at the center of the nation’s AI boom, with at least 248 projects planned statewide, according to a Texas Tribune analysis.
Why this matters in The San Antonio
The proliferation of power plants for data centers in Texas, particularly in Bexar County and surrounding areas, raises concerns about the local impact on air quality and public health. With 32 proposed power plants statewide, including several in the San Antonio area, residents can expect increased emissions of fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds. These pollutants are linked to serious health problems, including respiratory illnesses and heart disease, which could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in the region. As the city continues to grow and attract new businesses, it is crucial for local leaders to balance economic development with environmental and public health considerations. The potential strain on the state's power grid and residential electricity bills is also a concern for San Antonio residents, who may face higher energy costs and reduced reliability as a result of these new power plants.
About this story
Original reporting by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . The San Antonio surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 1, 2026 ·
Source: KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) ·
Reading time: 6 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Texas is poised to lead the nation in power plants built to fuel data centers, according to a new report from an environmental watchdog group that warns the plants plan to emit tons of greenhouse gases and air pollution that will cause significant climate impacts and risks to human health. At lea...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 1, 2026 by KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate) and curated for The San Antonio readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Texas Tribune, By Alejandra Martinez, Graphics By Hien An Ngo at KSAT 12 (ABC affiliate). To learn more about how The San Antonio selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The San Antonio, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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