Data center air quality in Texas could erode decades of gains
Modelling by the Houston Advanced Research Center says data center air pollution in Texas depends on whether developers rely on gas turbines or onsite renewables.
In a grid-based scenario modelled by the Houston Advanced Research Center, soot from Texas's power sector would more than triple, reaching its highest level since 2006.
Smog-forming nitrogen oxides (NOx) could rise 136 percent, approaching 2004 levels, while carbon dioxide could climb 90 percent above its 2025 level.
Pairing grid power with onsite renewables could cut NOx up to 10 times, while onsite gas engines could push pollution to the highest possible levels.
Texas is the leading data center market by power draw, with 26 gigawatts of existing and under-construction capacity.
The figures are modelled scenarios, not measurements, and many proposed projects may never be built.