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A Series On AIMBy Lou Dugganicrosoft Corp. announced another $1.4 billion investment in data centers west of SanAntonio, where the technology company has put together more than 1,400 acres of land. And the company also committed to building four data centers in Irving, Texas, as part of a larger presence that includes three additional data centers by QTS Realty Trust LLC.Apple recently announced that it is t aking another step in the artificial intelligence race, as it plans to build a quarter-million-square-foot factory in Houston, Texas, by 2026. At the facility, Apple will assemble servers that go into data centers to power Apple Intelligence, its current AI model.A joint venture between OpenAI, SoftBank, and Oracle, known as “Stargate,” already has ten data centers under construction in Texas.Other major technology companies, including Google and Amazon Web Services (AWS), have also announced plans for new data center facilities in Texas.Electricity DemandThe growth of data centers in Texas comes as state legislators attempt to balance such economic growth while ensuring there is enough electricity to power both thesecenters and the needs of residents and businesses. Large data centers can require 100 MW or more each. In comparison, one megawatt can power approximately 250 homes during a hot summer day.Last Energy, a nuclear technology company, plans to build thirty micronuclear reactors in Haskell County, Texas, to meet the growing energy demands of data centers. These small nuclear reactors provide six hundred megawatts of electricity, offering a dependable and low-carbon solution to Texas’s growing energy needs. The modular, factory-built design of microreactors allows for quick deployment and scalability.Micronuclear reactors face regulatory and public scrutiny, and there are concerns about the potential for radioactive waste. However, proponents argue that nuclear energy can help move Texas toward a cleaner future, energy independence, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.Financial ImpactThe data center industry in Texas has significantly contributed to the state’s economy. Such centers were responsible for $1.9 billion in economic output across Texas in 2022. The new Apple factory and jobs are part of the company’s plans to spend $500 billion in the U.S. over the next four years. The Stargate partnership in Abilene plansto invest up to $500 billion in AI-related infrastructure.Job CreationThe data center industry in Texas directly employed 59,560 people in 2022, a 41% increase from 42,290 direct jobs in 2018. Apple will be looking to add about 20,000 research and development jobs across the United States. Stargate is expected to create at least fifty-seven full-time positions in Abilene with an average annual salary of $57,600.Impact on WaterData centers require substantial amounts of water for cooling purposes. A single data center can consume up to five million gallons of drinking water per day,enough to supply thousands of households or farms.The increasing number of data centers exacerbates water consumption faced by communities, especially in water-stressed areas. This can lead to conflicts over water usage and strain on local water supplies. Data centers also indirectly consume water through the electricity they require to operate. And the generation of this electricity often involves significant water use.Given the ongoing drought conditions and water supply challenges in Texas, the expansion of data centers could further stress the state’s water resources.AI In Texas Creates Demand For Electricity And WaterIn-Store Couponfamily-owned hobby store!$100FF$75I IIIII111111111111111Valid 3/1/25-3/34 1125. Limit one per customer. Cannot be combined with other offera ot applied to previous purchases. Purchase must meet minimum pre-tax amount to receive discount. Coupon can only be redeemed in-store at HobbyTown San Antonio. Some product exdusions apply. Return of discounted item(s) will be for the price actually paid and the value of this ooupon wlll be forfeited.The Vineyard *TXSA25NWS1* ShoppingCenter1604 & Blanco Rd.Located in the heart of Stone Oak, our Assisted Living Community offers a fun and energetic lifestyle while providing the personalized care you need.Take advantage of our current special.NO COMMUNITY FEE for all new residents!Call Today for Lunch and a Tour!20450 Huebner Road, San Antonio, TX 78258 210-615-4000 I IndependenceHill.com8www.stoneoakhighlights.comApril 2025