Newberry County Council to Vote on Ordinance for AI Data Center, Consider Moratorium
Newberry County Council is set to vote on a final ordinance that could enable an AI data center while also considering a moratorium on new data center applications. Residents are concerned about the impact on local water and electricity resources, prompting the council chairman to express opposition until more information is available.
Newberry County Council is scheduled to vote Wednesday on the final reading of an ordinance that could facilitate the development of an AI data center near the Mid-Carolina Commerce Park off Interstate 26. Concurrently, the council will also deliberate on a proposed moratorium aimed at temporarily halting new data center applications.
The prospect of a new data center has raised significant concerns among local residents. Critics point to the potential strain on Newberry County's water and power resources, highlighting the county's agricultural identity. A resident voiced worries that a data center could consume as much electricity as the entire town, with current water resources already critical for crops, livestock, and timber.
While proponents argue that data centers can generate substantial tax revenue for local governments, supporting infrastructure and public services, County Chairman Nick Shealy plans to vote against the current proposal. He emphasized the need for more comprehensive information regarding the community impacts of such facilities, stating that no data center would be approved until the community is comfortable with its safety and lack of strain.
Newberry Electric Cooperative issued a statement affirming its obligation to serve all customers within its territory but confirmed policies are in place to ensure data centers cover the full cost of any necessary electrical infrastructure. The decisive county council meeting will take place at 6:00 p.m. at the Newberry Opera House.