North Texas, centred on Dallas, has overtaken other major global hubs to be ranked the world's number one data centre market, as Texas cements itself as a leading location for the rapidly expanding artificial intelligence infrastructure industry. The ranking reflects a surge in AI-driven demand for computing capacity, with the state attracting huge investment as companies race to build the facilities needed to power AI systems. The development underscores Texas's growing economic and technological influence, though it also raises pressing questions about whether the state's electricity grid can keep pace.

The scale of the build-out has already prompted concern over power supply, with Governor Greg Abbott reportedly pausing new data centre projects pending an audit of the grid. Garret Graves, co-chair of the AI Infrastructure Coalition, has warned of the strain that the rapid growth of data centres could place on electricity capacity, highlighting the tension between welcoming lucrative investment and ensuring reliable power for existing residents and businesses.