SC public service commission rules on challenge to Upstate data center construction
The South Carolina Public Service Commission has dismissed a challenge against Valera's data center in Spartanburg County, ruling it lacks jurisdiction over the private company's power generation. Meanwhile, the Spartanburg County Council has postponed the final vote on a proposed one-year data center moratorium until September, facing continued opposition from residents and a state senator pushing for immediate action.
The South Carolina Public Service Commission has dismissed a challenge against Valera's Northmark data center, currently under construction in Spartanburg County. The commission ruled it does not have jurisdiction over Valera, deeming it a private business not subject to certain state utility rules, despite arguments from the South Carolina Environmental Law Center and local residents. The challenge contended that Valera was building a gas-fired power plant to serve the data center without complying with state requirements. Valera stated its operations would continue, focusing on compliance with applicable laws and engaging with the community.
Residents expressed deep disappointment in the ruling, believing it silences their voices and sets a dangerous precedent for private power generation. They vowed to continue their fight against the project.
Separately, the Spartanburg County Council's final vote on a proposed one-year data center moratorium has been postponed to September. The moratorium, which passed its first two readings in June and July, aims to pause new data center developments. Council members require additional time to gather public and expert input.
State Senator Shane Martin sent a letter to the County Council, urging an immediate third reading on the moratorium. He also encouraged the Council to review and suspend the ongoing Northmark project, calling its expansion a "bait and switch."