Charlotte city council member calls for data center regulations, moratorium amid ongoing drought

Charlotte, North Carolina, is currently experiencing an ongoing drought, prompting voluntary water restrictions across the area. Amidst these conditions, a Charlotte City Council member is actively advocating for new regulations and a temporary moratorium on data center construction. The concern stems from public inquiries regarding the significant water consumption of data centers, with some facilities reportedly using hundreds of thousands of gallons daily. Speaking near a proposed data center site off Hood Road, the council member highlighted worries about environmental impacts, particularly the lack of clear regulations on water usage, describing the situation as the "Wild West." Robert Cox from UNC Charlotte's Energy Production unit clarified that data center water usage varies, with closed-loop systems being more water-efficient than open-loop systems. He anticipates that regulations will likely demand more efficient closed-loop systems in the future. The council member's primary goal is to be proactive, establish rules, and protect the health of residents, neighborhoods, and natural spaces by conserving the local water supply. The Data Center Coalition responded with a statement affirming the industry's commitment to responsible water use and efficient practices.