The Public Utility Commission (PUC) of Texas has announced a new survey to examine the water usage of data centers and virtual currency mining facilities. This initiative is part of Rider 6 in the 2026-2027 State Budget, which directs the PUC to study water use in industrial properties, particularly those with energy demands inversely related to their water consumption.
The findings will be shared with the Water Development Board and the Commission on Environmental Quality for planning purposes.
Texas State Rep. Armando Walle, who authored this budget rider, expressed his support for the survey in a statement sent to the Texas Dispatch.
“This survey is a critical early step in what I hope becomes Texas’ forward-thinking approach to our state’s water needs,” he said. Walle emphasized the importance of understanding resource availability as more data centers are established across Texas.
Walle has been serving House District 140 since his election in 2009, succeeding Kevin Bailey. He noted that last session he brought together leaders from relevant agencies to draft the survey’s language. He also acknowledged Chairman Bonnen’s support for including this project in the budget.