Amazon Data Center to Be Powered by Potentially High-Emitting Plant
Amazon is investing in a new data center in West Texas that will be supported by a new power plant, which could become one of the largest single sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. The plant will initially operate off the state grid.
Amazon is investing in a new power plant to supply its upcoming data center in West Texas, a facility that could rank among the nation's largest single producers of greenhouse gas emissions, according to the New York Times. The natural gas-fired plant, located in Pecos County, Texas, has received substantial investment from Amazon.
Initially, the 7.65-gigawatt power plant is not slated to connect to the Texas power grid. Instead, its 35 natural gas turbines are intended to provide electricity directly to the new Amazon data center.
Cleanview, an organization that tracks data centers and associated power projects, reports that GW Ranch received a permit from Texas. The construction of such a large fossil fuel-powered facility raises environmental concerns regarding its emissions.
As the demand for data centers continues to grow, companies are facing increased scrutiny over their energy sources and environmental impact. Amazon's approach highlights the complex energy challenges in powering massive digital infrastructure.