DeSantis on the future of AI data centers in Florida: “There’s a lot of concern”

Governor Ron DeSantis discussed concerns regarding AI data centers' future in Florida during an interview at the Milken Institute Global Conference. He highlighted significant environmental and energy challenges posed by these facilities, which require vast amounts of water for cooling and consume substantial electricity. DeSantis emphasized Florida's environmentally sensitive areas, such as the Everglades, which are currently undergoing a major restoration project. Experts like the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI) and the American Geographical Society report that data centers use millions of gallons of water daily and can introduce pollutants into water systems, potentially compromising the state's conservation efforts and exacerbating existing water shortages. The governor also voiced concerns about the impact on electricity rates, noting that data centers' surging energy demands could lead to higher costs for consumers. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reports residential electricity price increases, partly attributed to the "AI data center rush." To address these issues, DeSantis proposed an "AI Bill of Rights" in December 2025. This legislation aims to protect Florida's water resources, prohibit data center construction on agricultural land, and prevent utilities like Florida Power & Light from passing on hyperscale data center development costs to consumers. Despite recent setbacks in the House, DeSantis stated his intention to sign the bill this month, affirming his commitment to protecting Floridians from negative impacts even if it means fewer data centers in the state.