Fayette County, Georgia, residents debate data center impact and water usage

Attorney James Clifton discussed the growing debate surrounding data center developments across the U.S., specifically highlighting concerns in Fayette County, Georgia. Residents in Fayette County are expressing significant alarm over the environmental and community impacts of a QTS data center. Clifton revealed a major discrepancy in water usage by the QTS facility. Initially, the community was informed the data center would use 2,000 gallons of water per day. However, an open records request uncovered that the facility used approximately 70 million gallons in the last year, which is about 100 times the original estimate. While QTS attributes this to a "billing mistake," the community remains deeply concerned and is calling for greater accountability and transparency. Clifton emphasized the necessity of implementing "common sense regulations" and guardrails to protect citizens. He suggested that data centers should be located in industrial zones, far from residential and vulnerable areas, to minimize disruption. He also pointed out that residential power rates are increasing in Georgia while industrial rates are decreasing, leading to concerns that average citizens are subsidizing the industry. The community's strong opposition has led to Clifton being asked to run for County Commission to voice their concerns. He advocates for stronger regulations that outline specific water usage limits and ensure developers are held accountable for exceeding estimates, while also recognizing the importance of data centers for technological advancement and national security.