New group forms to oppose AI data centers in Burke, Catawba

A new opposition group, "Stop AI Data Centers in Burke & Catawba County," has emerged in North Carolina, with a primary goal of achieving a statewide moratorium on data center development. The group has begun attending local governmental meetings in Burke and Catawba counties to voice their concerns. Their efforts are largely focused on a specific project by DigiPower X, which recently acquired 21 additional acres in Hildebran, adjacent to an existing 19.5-acre tract. DigiPower X, specializing in advanced data centers for AI and high-performance computing, is reportedly planning an AI data center in Hildebran, near a Duke Energy substation. This marks a shift from their initial plan for a cryptocurrency mining data center. Although a formal proposal has not yet reached Hildebran's planning and zoning department, the opposition is mobilizing. Belinda Cline, who created the anti-data center Facebook group, spoke at a recent Burke County Board of Commissioners meeting, expressing environmental concerns, including massive water and electricity consumption, especially given the region's drought conditions and proposed Duke Energy rate hikes. Hildebran Town Councilwoman Jody York also attended the meeting, signaling her opposition to DigiPower X's plans. The group intends to continue their advocacy at local government meetings and hopes to organize a rally.