Data center freeze proposed in Beaufort County. ‘I’d rather fight than just give in’
Beaufort County, South Carolina, is moving to propose a nine-month moratorium on data centers and develop new regulations or a potential ban. County officials and some residents express concerns about the facilities' high water and electricity consumption and their environmental impact. This action is proactive, as no specific data center proposal is currently before the county.
Beaufort County, South Carolina, is advancing plans for a nine-month moratorium on data center development, aiming to establish new regulations or potentially ban the facilities outright. The County Council's Natural Resources Committee unanimously voted 7-0 to direct staff to prepare the moratorium and a corresponding ordinance. This proactive measure comes amid growing concerns among county officials and residents regarding the substantial water and electricity demands of large-scale data centers, as well as their broader environmental impact.
Planning Director Rob Merchant indicated that the issue of data center development has gained widespread attention, with Beaufort County looking to either approve a ban or permit facilities under strict conditions in specific areas. County Council Chairwoman Alice Howard cited neighboring Colleton County's experience with a "massive data center proposal" as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the need to act before a similar project emerges in Beaufort County.
Resident opinions varied, with Joe Passement of Sun City advocating for immediate ordinance development rather than a lengthy moratorium, believing a complete ban is unrealistic but control over location is achievable. In contrast, Gerald Dawson of Seabrook expressed strong support for a ban, stating a preference "to fight than just give in." Councilman David Bartholomew of Lady's Island has already drafted a ban. Councilman Lawrence McElynn of Hilton Head called for a public meeting to inform residents about the quality of life, environmental, and economic impacts.
Deputy Planning Director Juliana Zadik highlighted local concerns beyond water and electricity, including wildlife, light pollution, and architectural integration. The county's push for regulation reflects a broader trend across South Carolina, where many counties are studying the impact of data centers fueled by the growth of artificial intelligence.