Willie Nelson Joins Opposition to Data Center Expansion in Texas

Country music icon Willie Nelson has voiced his concerns against the rapid development of data centers in Texas. He warns that these facilities pose threats to rural communities like his hometown of Abbott. According to the Data Center Map tracker, Texas hosts 510 data centers, with approximately 200 located in the Dallas area alone.

In a letter shared on social media, Nelson, an advocate for rural communities, expressed affection for Abbott, where he maintains a home. “I still have farmed land where I can see stars at night,” he noted. He urges for action against data centers “invading our land,” labeling them as “loud, water thieving, and light polluting.” He emphasized the importance of preserving farmland and warned against industrial footprints that disrupt rural life.

Nelson’s stance comes amid increasing data center projects in Texas, many linked to artificial intelligence. A University of Texas poll indicated that 56 percent of Texans oppose data centers in their communities. This sentiment mirrors concerns about how data center growth impacts water, land, noise, and rural quality of life.

Water Usage Concerns

Water consumption remains a primary worry for residents. For instance, Henderson County residents opposed a proposed Diode Ventures data center near Cedar Creek Reservoir, citing potential water use of five million gallons per day within five years. Diode Ventures has since halted plans, citing community feedback and infrastructure concerns.

Concerns extend across rural Texas. Giles Dalby, a West Texas cattle rancher and county commissioner, stressed that water demands from data centers could outpace those of ranchers, particularly during droughts and water rationing.

Impact on Farmland and Community Identity

This issue aligns with broader anxieties about diminished open space and increased industrialization in rural areas. Critics fear the loss of farmland, rising rent, and clogged roads are altering Texas’s rural character.

Noise and Light Disturbance

Noise pollution is another issue. Residents near a Granbury crypto mine have reported noise and lighting disturbances, with some speaking to Texas Senate committees for assistance. Similar complaints arose in Brazoria County near a Giga Energy site, where persistent noise has been likened to an incessant “washing machine.” Giga Energy acknowledged these concerns and announced plans for sound mitigation measures.

Infrastructure and Cost Concerns

Texans are also questioning who should finance the necessary electrical infrastructure for data centers. Politicians are calling for them to cover their infrastructure costs. Governor Greg Abbott has suggested that data centers report annual water and electricity usage.

Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico argues that AI should benefit working people. He urges ending advantageous tax deals and involving communities in data center planning.

Growing Skepticism Towards AI

This local backlash reflects wider national doubts about AI. A recent Bentley University-Gallup survey shows increased public awareness of AI but also reveals a rising perception that AI does more harm than good.

Editors who contributed to this story: Tobias Meyjes and James Debens.