Rep. Nancy Mace calls for one-year moratorium on new data centers in South Carolina
Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) is advocating for a one-year moratorium on new data center construction across South Carolina. She argues this pause is necessary for lawmakers to study the impact of these facilities on power grids, water resources, land use, and local communities. Concerns about increased energy demands and potential burdens on residents are cited as key reasons for the proposed halt.
U.S. Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) has publicly called for a one-year moratorium on the development of new data centers throughout South Carolina. In a recent statement, Rep. Mace emphasized the need for a temporary halt to allow state lawmakers to thoroughly assess the extensive impacts these large-scale facilities have on the power grid, local water resources, land use, and the surrounding communities.
Her proposal highlights growing concerns that data centers, often associated with "Big Tech," are excessively straining energy infrastructure, leading to higher electricity costs for families and small businesses in the state. This call comes amidst ongoing debates within the South Carolina legislature regarding new regulations for the rapidly expanding data center industry, with a bill seeking increased oversight and transparency currently stalled.
Community opposition has intensified recently, with specific projects, such as one in Spartanburg County, being withdrawn due to resident concerns over noise, environmental impacts, and energy consumption. Rep. Mace insists that South Carolina must take a deliberative approach to balance economic development opportunities with the pressing demands on infrastructure and community well-being before permitting further projects.