Warnock calls for a moratorium on Effingham County data centers
U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock has called for a moratorium on data center developments in Effingham County, Georgia, following residents' concerns about the proposed Camellia Data Center. Residents expressed issues with a lack of transparency, potential pollution, high electricity demands, and increased utility costs. OpenAI, associated with the project, responded by stating commitments to cover infrastructure costs and minimize water use.
U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock has called for a moratorium on data center development in Effingham County, Georgia, following a meeting with concerned residents at Zion Lutheran Church in Guyton. Residents, including John Smith and Raymond Carver, expressed frustration over a lack of transparency and proper notification regarding the proposed Camellia Data Center, which would be located less than half a mile from their homes.
Concerns raised included the facility's immense power draw of 3,300 megawatts, potential pollution, and the possibility of increased utility costs for local residents. Senator Warnock emphasized the importance of transparency and stated that any moratorium could only be lifted if the project did not lead to increased water or electric bills for residents, also noting the data center's proximity to an elementary school.
In response, a spokesperson for OpenAI, the company associated with Project Camellia, issued a statement pledging to cover the full cost of electric infrastructure and service, utilize closed-loop cooling to minimize water use, and provide $80 million in community benefits. The Effingham County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to hold a special work session to allow residents to further voice their concerns.