Are rural areas prepared for Data Center expansion?
Bertie County, North Carolina, is working to develop a new ordinance to regulate data centers, solar farms, and wind farms due to a current lack of zoning. Commissioners and planning officials discussed concerns about environmental impact, water consumption, noise, and potential legal issues without proper regulations. The proposed ordinance aims to protect natural resources and citizens while allowing responsible development.
Bertie County, North Carolina, is actively addressing the rapid expansion of data centers and other digital infrastructure by developing a comprehensive ordinance. During a recent work session on September 21, the Bertie Board of Commissioners, led by Planning Board Chair Gayle King and Planning Director Traci White, discussed the urgent need for regulations, noting the county currently has no zoning to control such businesses.
The discussion highlighted significant concerns, including potential environmental impacts such as water consumption by data centers (proposing closed-loop recycling systems), stormwater runoff from cleared land for solar farms, and the impact of wind turbine foundations on coastal aquifers. Noise pollution from data centers and air pollution from backup generators were also cited as issues. Vice Chair L.T. Hoggard expressed concern over what he termed "environmental racism," suggesting rural, low-economic-status counties are disproportionately targeted for such developments without adequate protections.
The proposed ordinance aims to establish standards for setbacks from waterways, limits on solar farm acreage, and requirements for independent well testing and Aircraft Detection Lighting Systems for wind farms. Developers would also be required to cover costs for public notifications, hearings, and engineering reviews. King stressed that while Bertie County welcomes economic development, it must protect its citizens and natural resources, emphasizing that the ordinance is not a ban but a framework for responsible growth.
Other North Carolina counties have already taken action: Northampton County has approved a 32-month moratorium on data centers, and Gates County enacted a one-year moratorium in December 2025. In related news, Halifax County approved a $1.7 million land deal with Quiet Data Centers Halifax for a $250 million investment in an industrial park.