Texas Approves Largest Air Pollution Permit for 7.65 GW Gas Project Amid AI Data Center Demand
Texas has approved the largest air pollution permit in the U.S. for a 7.65 GW gas power complex, the GW Ranch, amid rising demand for energy from data centers. The project, which is set to emit over 12,000 tons of regulated pollutants and up to 33 million tons of greenhouse gases annually, is part of a broader expansion of nearly 40 GW in gas projects in the state. This rapid development has raised concerns among local communities regarding environmental and health impacts.
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The Texas environmental regulatory authority has granted the largest air pollution permit in the U.S. for a 7.65 GW gas power complex near the Permian Basin. Pacifico Energy's GW Ranch is labeled as the largest U.S. energy project.
The Texas gas power project pipeline has grown by nearly 58 GW in 2025, surpassing California's peak energy demand. Nearly 40 GW of upcoming gas projects in Texas are aimed at powering data centers. Fermi America is seeking permits for 6 GW of gas energy for a data center near Amarillo, while Chevron plans a 5 GW facility in West Texas.
The GW Ranch is permitted to emit over 12,000 tons of regulated pollutants annually, and up to 33 million tons of greenhouse gases, representing a significant environmental impact. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has expedited numerous gas power project approvals, leading to concerns over emissions and local health impacts from nearby communities opposing such developments.
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