As AI technology advances, companies are increasingly relying on fossil fuels, particularly natural gas from fracking, to power their data centers. A recent report highlighted the construction of a massive data center complex by Poolside in West Texas, which will generate its own power from the nearby Permian Basin. This trend is not isolated, as major players like OpenAI and Meta are also pursuing similar strategies, raising alarms among local residents about environmental impacts and resource depletion. Critics argue that the rapid expansion of these facilities could exacerbate existing issues related to water supply and air quality, particularly in drought-prone areas. The push for energy independence and competition with countries like China further complicates the narrative, as companies prioritize immediate energy needs over long-term sustainability.