Overview
- Gov. Greg Abbott told the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to halt approvals for data‑center projects in a Sept. 21 directive, but watchdog groups say the agency has kept processing and advancing permits since then.
- Public Citizen and FracTracker reviewed TCEQ records and found dozens of post‑directive actions, including stormwater approvals, emissions certifications and fast‑tracked reviews for gas generators.
- TCEQ and Abbott’s office dispute that final permits were issued and say the agency has paused issuance while screening applications to see if they fall under the directive.
- Critics say stormwater 'notice of intent' filings and expedited engineering reviews can function as de facto start permits that allow grading, excavation and on‑site power work to begin before broader approvals.
- Public comment periods remain open for major air permits and multi‑agency audits by ERCOT, the PUC and the Texas Water Development Board are ongoing, leaving communities uncertain about water, air and electricity impacts and possible policy changes.