Effingham County Weighs Data Center Interest in Southeast Georgia

Effingham County, Georgia, is at the center of early discussions regarding potential data center development in the coastal plains region of southeast Georgia. While the county has no concrete proposals or confirmed projects, officials acknowledge numerous inquiries from tech companies. Brandt Herndon, CEO of the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, stated they are learning as much as possible to be prepared. Effingham County Manager Tim Callanan emphasized the county's focus on resource protection, intending to insist on closed-loop water systems for any future data center developments to reduce water consumption. Neighboring Bulloch County has already instituted a 90-day moratorium on data centers to allow commissioners time to research and establish appropriate zoning regulations, with a public hearing scheduled for May 5. Bulloch County Chairman David Bennett expressed caution, aiming to "pump the brakes" on development until a plan is in place, despite potential tax revenue benefits. Statewide, Georgia has become a hub for data centers, attracting tech companies with significant tax breaks, but state lawmakers failed to pass new regulations in the 2026 legislative session, leaving counties to manage the industry largely on their own. Public opposition is growing, with residents expressing concerns at a town hall in Savannah. Panelists, including Georgia Public Service Commission member Peter Hubbard, highlighted loopholes in the state's 15-year commitment requirement for large data centers. Chassidy Malloy of Georgia Conservation Voters and Kristen Stampfer, founder of Coastal Communities United, voiced concerns about water and electricity usage, noise, heat generation, land clearing, and a perceived lack of transparency from officials. Community groups are circulating petitions, and Bulloch County residents will vote on a ballot question regarding data centers in the upcoming May election.