What is a data center, and why is rural Georgia suddenly on the map?

Georgia is experiencing a significant boom in data center development, largely propelled by the increasing demand for Artificial Intelligence and the state's generous tax incentives for computer systems and cooling infrastructure. The Atlanta area has become the country's second busiest market for data centers, trailing only Northern Virginia, with 214 facilities currently operating and more rapidly emerging. However, this rapid expansion has drawn criticism regarding its impact on the state's resources. Concerns are mounting over the massive electricity consumption of data centers, with consumer advocates worried that the costs of expanding Georgia Power's grid to meet this demand will burden residential customers. Water usage for cooling these facilities has also become a flash point, especially among agricultural opponents, and has reportedly led to water supply problems for residents in Newton County following the construction of a $750 million data center there. In response to these concerns, Georgia lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at addressing the industry's benefits and drawbacks. Governor Brian Kemp vetoed House Bill 1192 in 2024, which would have paused certain tax credits. More recently, Senate Bill 410, sponsored by Newnan Republican Sen. Matt Brass, passed the Senate with a 32-21 vote. This bill proposes to phase out tax breaks for new data center developments and computer equipment earlier than originally planned, reflecting a broader legislative pushback seen in other states like Maryland and Oklahoma.