Here’s who is helping Charlotte city officials with data center research – for free
The City of Charlotte is receiving pro-bono research assistance from the World Resources Institute to develop policies for data center development. This collaboration occurs midway through an existing moratorium on new data center projects. Officials aim to establish clear guidelines for future construction.
Charlotte, North Carolina city officials are currently engaged in extensive research regarding data center development, receiving pro-bono assistance from the global nonprofit, World Resources Institute (WRI). This initiative is taking place at the halfway point of an existing moratorium on new data center projects in the city. The moratorium was established after efforts led by a local Councilwoman to pause development until clear policies could be put in place.
The urgency of developing these policies is highlighted by an existing data center in Uptown Charlotte, which received approval for a larger expansion prior to the moratorium. This pre-approved expansion underscores the public's passionate concerns about data center proliferation within the city. The City of Charlotte confirmed that WRI is providing its expertise, capacity, and in-kind research on data center infrastructure planning without any contractual agreement or payment.