Charlotte leaders seek more input on new data centers amid community concerns
QTS is building a data center in York County, South Carolina, facing concerns from local residents regarding noise, light pollution, water usage, and power consumption. Meanwhile, the Charlotte City Council is considering a five-month moratorium on new data center projects to study impacts and establish regulations. QTS has addressed community concerns about water and electricity usage, pledging to be a "good neighbor" and cover infrastructure costs.
QTS (Quality Technology Services) is moving forward with the construction of a data center near Lake Wylie in York County, South Carolina, a project that has drawn significant community concern. Neighbors in the area, particularly along Hansmill Highway near Campbell Road, have voiced worries about potential environmental impacts, including constant noise from cooling and power generation, light pollution, and the possible effects on county wells.
Simultaneously, the Charlotte City Council is discussing a recommendation to pause new data center projects for at least five months. This proposed moratorium aims to allow time for impact studies and the development of new regulations for data centers within the city limits. While the Charlotte discussion unfolds, QTS is actively addressing the concerns of residents in York County.
Travis Wright, QTS Vice President of Energy and Sustainability, met with reporters to detail the project, which will eventually comprise nine buildings. He stated that each building would have very low water consumption, comparable to about four households, and would utilize municipal water. Regarding power, Wright explained that QTS would build substations on-site and pay 100% for necessary Duke Energy network upgrades, which he anticipates will put downward pressure on local power rates rather than increasing them. QTS leaders are scheduled to hold a town hall meeting at Oakridge Elementary School in Clover to directly answer community questions and reinforce their commitment to being "good neighbors."