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Element Critical Expands Data Center in Katy, TX

Exterior view of Element Critical's new data center in Katy, TX

Katy, Texas, November 26, 2025

Element Critical is expanding its data center infrastructure with a new 20,000-square-foot data hall in Katy, Texas. This expansion is in response to the rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) capabilities in the region. The project is expected to provide 10 megawatts of capacity by its completion in 2026, which will help alleviate the current shortage of data center space for AI-driven applications in Texas.

Element Critical Expands Data Center in Katy, TX

New Facility to Support Growing Demand for AI and HPC

Katy, Texas – In response to the surging need for artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) capabilities, Element Critical has initiated construction on a new 20,000-square-foot data hall at its Houston One campus located in Katy. This expansion underscores the company’s proactive approach in addressing the increasing demand for robust data center infrastructure and is projected to add 10 megawatts (MW) of capacity, with 4.5 MW anticipated to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2026.

This expansion is vital for Texas’ economy, renowned for its entrepreneurial spirit and favorable business environment. The growing tech industry in the region, coupled with less regulatory burdens, positions Texas as a formidable place for businesses seeking growth and innovation. Local entrepreneurs are driving this demand, particularly in the AI sector, which requires substantial computing resources that traditional data centers struggle to provide.

Addressing Capacity Constraints

The new facility is set to mitigate the shortage of data center space currently facing Texas, a crucial issue for enterprises reliant on AI applications that require extensive computing power. The Chief Operating Officer of Element Critical highlighted the importance of the new infrastructure in a capacity-constrained market, recognizing the essential role that data centers play in supporting both enterprise-level AI workloads and the region’s continued growth.

Advanced Infrastructure for AI Computing

The newly designed data hall will incorporate high-density power systems and sophisticated cooling technologies tailored to manage the heat output generated by AI and HPC applications, which is significantly higher than that produced by conventional computing systems. With existing facilities already accommodating various sectors such as energy, healthcare, and finance, Element Critical’s Houston One campus is poised to become an even more vital player in Texas’ technological landscape.

Background Context

Headquartered in Vienna, Virginia, Element Critical is not only a leading provider of tailored data center services but is also committed to expansion within the Texas market. In addition to the new construction in Katy, the company previously acquired a 62,000-square-foot data center in Austin in 2021, further demonstrating its dedication to addressing the burgeoning demand for digital services in the Lone Star State.

Key Features of the Expansion

Feature Details
Location 22000 Franz Road, Katy, Texas
Facility Size 20,000 square feet
Total Capacity 10 MW
Operational Capacity by Q4 2026 4.5 MW
Existing Campus Size 118,248 square feet
Existing Power Capacity 26 MW

As the Lone Star State continues to cultivate an environment conducive to technological advancement and entrepreneurship, developments like Element Critical’s new data center in Katy further highlight the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and supporting Texas entrepreneurs. This growth invigorates the local economy, creates job opportunities, and positions Texas at the forefront of the national tech landscape.

Readers are encouraged to stay engaged with Austin’s evolving economic landscape and to support local businesses that contribute to the region’s dynamic growth. By doing so, residents can help maintain Texas’ reputation as a thriving hub for business innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Element Critical’s new data center expansion in Katy, Texas?

Element Critical is constructing a 20,000-square-foot data hall at its Houston One campus in Katy, Texas, to add 10 MW of capacity, with 4.5 MW expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2026.

Why is this expansion necessary?

The expansion addresses the growing shortage of data center space in Texas, particularly for AI-driven applications that require substantial computing power.

What advanced features will the new facility include?

The facility will feature high-density power systems and advanced cooling technologies necessary to support AI and HPC applications, which generate significantly more heat than traditional computing systems.

What is Element Critical’s background?

Element Critical is a leading provider of tailored data center services, headquartered in Vienna, Virginia. The company has been expanding its presence in Texas, including the acquisition of a 62,000-square-foot data center in Austin in 2021, to support the growing demand for digital services in the region.


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STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER

The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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