Amazon backs massive Texas gas plant for AI data centers

Amazon confirmed Friday that it is financially backing a private gas power plant in Pecos County, Texas, to supply a planned data center campus, a project whose permits show it would generate 7.65 gigawatts and be allowed to emit more than 30 million metric tonnes of greenhouse gases a year.

The plant, being developed by Pacifico Energy and known as GW Ranch, would have 35 turbines, according to previously filed permits. AFP reported that its permitted emissions level could make it the largest single greenhouse gas source in the United States, though facilities rarely emit at their permitted ceiling.

Market intelligence company Cleanview first reported the link after reviewing satellite imagery and three Amazon data center construction permits filed this week.

Amazon said generating power on site would mean the company pays the full cost of its operations without passing infrastructure costs to households. A spokesperson said the Pecos County campus would use new on-site generation that “won't raise electricity costs for Texas families” and would be designed to shift to grid-connected service when interconnection timelines allow.

Amazon also said it is exploring solar energy and battery storage at the site and would use non-potable, brackish groundwater. The company said it remains committed to net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 and has enabled nearly 10 gigawatts of carbon-free energy projects in Texas.

The project reflects a wider move by large technology companies to build behind-the-meter power sources for AI-related data centers. The source item said Meta, Microsoft and Oracle are also pursuing such projects.