Poll: NC voters want data centers to generate their own power

A recent Carolina Journal Poll reveals that over 78% of North Carolina voters favor legislation that would mandate data centers to generate their own power, with only about 10% opposed. This strong public sentiment stems from growing concerns over the substantial electricity and water consumption, environmental footprint, and strain on local infrastructure associated with data center expansion across the state. A contentious situation has unfolded in Stokes County, where local commissioners narrowly approved a rezoning request for a multibillion-dollar data center project in Walnut Cove. This decision was met with overwhelming public opposition, culminating in community and environmental groups filing a lawsuit against the approval. Additionally, a separate 99-acre, four-building data center project in Rural Hall is currently under review. The statewide debate extends to legislative efforts, as state lawmakers have introduced bills aimed at ensuring data centers bear the costs of necessary energy infrastructure rather than passing them on to ratepayers. This move aligns with national discussions where federal regulators are considering allowing major tech companies to connect data centers directly to power plants. Duke Energy, a key utility provider in the region, is also exploring the addition of nuclear reactors near its Belews Creek plant to accommodate future data center energy demands. Proponents of data center development highlight the tax revenue and job creation these facilities bring. However, critics counter that the economic benefits are limited in the long term, overshadowed by the massive resource consumption and large-scale land clearing they entail.