Georgia governor-elect plans temporary halt on new data center approvals

Georgia governor-elect Kesha Lance Bottoms plans to sign an executive order temporarily stopping approvals for new data centers for at least a month. Her administration intends to study the industry’s impact and develop clearer standards for energy use, site locations and community protections, while bringing consumers, industry representatives and residents into the process.

The move follows rapid data center growth supported by tax incentives, which Bottoms says is increasing pressure on Georgia’s electric grid, contributing to higher power bills and raising concerns about water consumption. A new Democratic majority on the Georgia Public Service Commission also plans to scrutinize electricity costs and large customers such as data centers. Google’s proposed complex in Columbia County and QTS’ Augusta campus are expected to proceed under existing agreements, although future developments may face stricter requirements.