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Texas Leads 74 Data-Center Plants Emitting 662 Mt CO2

7/2/2026

Summary

EIP Flags Emissions

The Environmental Integrity Project report finds 74 proposed gas-fired power plants for data centers could emit 662 million tons of greenhouse gases annually.
Texas would host the largest share, with 32 projects in Comal, Bexar and Pecos counties.
If Texas plants run at full capacity, they could emit over 287 million tons of greenhouse gases, 14,000 tons of fine particulate, 20,000 tons of nitrogen oxides and 8,000 tons of VOCs.

Summary

Microsoft Backs Gas

Microsoft recommended approval of Dominion Energy Virginia’s plan to add 6 GW of gas capacity by 2036, while Google intervened without objecting.
Southeast utilities seek approval for about 45,000 megawatts of new gas plants by 2040, roughly 45 facilities in six states.
Google partnered with Xcel Energy to supply a 100% clean-energy portfolio for its Minnesota data center, while Emma Clancy urged tech leaders to assume responsibility for data-center demand shaping planning.

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EIP Flags Emissions

The Environmental Integrity Project report finds 74 proposed gas-fired power plants for data centers could emit 662 million tons of greenhouse gases annually.
Texas would host the largest share, with 32 projects in Comal, Bexar and Pecos counties.
If Texas plants run at full capacity, they could emit over 287 million tons of greenhouse gases, 14,000 tons of fine particulate, 20,000 tons of nitrogen oxides and 8,000 tons of VOCs.

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