Kemp backs data centers while raising concerns about AI risks
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp opposed a statewide moratorium on data center construction, arguing that communities should decide. He expressed concerns about AI risks but prioritizes beating China in the AI race. The article highlights new data center developments by OpenAI in Effingham County and Google in Columbia County, both facing resident concerns over environmental impacts like noise and water use, though the Columbia County project was approved with new development standards.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has publicly opposed a statewide moratorium on data center development, criticizing former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms' proposal for such a pause. Kemp argues that individual communities, not the state, should determine where data centers are built, citing local tax revenue and benefits. While acknowledging the "scary" implications of artificial intelligence for national security and children, Governor Kemp expressed greater concern about China's lead in the AI race.
The article highlights two specific data center developments in Georgia. OpenAI announced a $20 billion facility in Effingham County near Savannah, which faced scrutiny from environmental groups like Georgia Interfaith Power & Light regarding backup diesel generators. Separately, Columbia County officials approved rezonings for a Google data center in Appling despite resident opposition over power and water consumption.
In response to local concerns, Columbia County leaders announced that the partnership with Google and Georgia Power Co. will implement "some of the nation's most restrictive development standards" for new data centers. These standards include strict decibel limits, specific lighting, minimal physical footprint, water supply protections, and an end-of-life strategy for the facility. Google has also committed to covering all energy costs for the project.