Data center deep dive: A closer look at NorthMark's $3 billion project 

NorthMark's nearly $3 billion data center project in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, is proceeding with construction despite nationwide scrutiny over data centers. Reporter Diane Lee of WSPA 7News toured the facility, noting NorthMark declined an on-camera interview due to reported threats to employees, which were reported to the FBI. The first phase, called "Envelope Laura," will soon go live with 24 generators producing 24-megawatts, with plans for 11 natural gas turbines next year.

Environmental concerns are a major point of contention. Resident Barry Phillips expressed alarm over simple cycle turbine systems releasing nitrogen oxide, a known carcinogen, questioning why NorthMark chose an option with potentially more pollution. The Southern Environmental Law Center has sent a letter to the Department of Environmental Services, claiming the project will cause unacceptable cancer risks. However, Lee Lancaster, president and owner of a company that builds power generator packaging for data centers and supplied NorthMark, asserts that NorthMark is taking extensive steps, including using a Tier Four system and selective catalysts, to reduce emissions significantly below environmental standards.

Further legal and regulatory challenges have emerged. The Holloman Law Center questioned the project's power generation capacity, arguing the 450-megawatt facility should be subject to a state citing law requiring a certificate for facilities generating over 75 megawatts. NorthMark's attorneys contended the energy is for public use, and a commission ultimately ruled in NorthMark's favor on this point. Additionally, concerned citizens, represented by the LCSC, submitted a complaint arguing the 270-acre, $3 billion project is a major land development, contrary to Spartanburg County's designation of it as minor, based on it being a single parcel.

Transparency remains a significant public concern. Questions were raised about whether NorthMark fully informed the county of the 450-megawatt scope from the outset, although Spartanburg County confirmed initial filings did indicate this capacity. NorthMark stated they do not comment on their corporate structure but clarified the data center would not be used for training large language models or surveillance. Barry Phillips emphasized the desire for a transparent, public review. NorthMark officials have met with Phillips and his neighbors and have scheduled additional tele-town halls to address public questions.