Texas Electric Utility Only Considered Gas to Power $10 Billion Meta Data Center
Meta's $10 billion data center in El Paso, Texas, faces a hurdle as El Paso Electric's application to build a 366-megawatt natural gas facility to power it was scrutinized. Administrative law judges recommended approval only if ratepayers aren't burdened with costs, citing lack of alternatives considered. The final decision rests with the Public Utilities Commission of Texas. Meta would cover costs for the first five years, after which ratepayers may assume them.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
Regulatory decision will determine whether the gas plant cost is borne by Meta or passed to ratepayers, influencing project economics.
Market read
The outcome could set a precedent for utility‑backed power projects serving large tech facilities in Texas.
What to watch
Potential for alternative renewable power sourcing or off‑grid solutions that could bypass the gas plant entirely.
Background
Texas has paused data‑center permitting, but Meta's project proceeds pending power‑supply approval.
Ticker impact
Meta's $10B El Paso data center depends on a 366 MW natural‑gas plant whose approval is under review by the Public Utilities Commission of Texas.
Potential upside if the plant is denied (cost savings) or downside if approved with rate‑base recovery.
The decision is pending; market reaction will hinge on whether rate‑payer cost recovery is allowed.
Market effects
Highlights regulatory risk for utility‑backed power projects serving large tech customers.
May affect utility stocks in Texas and broader energy sector sentiment.
Limited to investors tracking Meta's capex and US utility regulation.
Counterpoint
If the commission imposes the rate‑base condition, Meta could face higher long‑term costs, making the project less attractive.
Key entities
- CompanyMeta Platforms, Inc.
Owner of the $10 B data center in El Paso.
- UtilityEl Paso Electric
Applicant for the 366 MW natural‑gas facility.
- RegulatorPublic Utilities Commission of Texas
Body reviewing the gas‑plant application.




