Data Centers: Dalton Utilities details water usage, power costs, citizens repeat pause request
Dalton Utilities told Dalton officials that a large data center under development in Whitfield County will use a closed-loop cooling system and is expected to consume relatively little water. The utility also described electricity costs, deposits and infrastructure fees designed to protect other customers, while residents renewed their request for a six-month moratorium on new data center development.
Dalton Utilities CEO John Thomas told Dalton officials that the large data center being developed in Whitfield County is expected to use a closed-loop cooling system, with limited water loss from evaporation. He also outlined the financial protections applied to data center customers, including exceptional deposits, fixed demand charges, prepaid weekly electricity accounts and upfront payment for grid-connection infrastructure.
Thomas said the utility’s two largest data center customers generated nearly $5 million in state and local sales tax revenue in 2025 and significantly increased transfers to the city’s general fund. Mayor Sams and City Administrator Andrew Parker said staff are continuing to examine issues involving data centers and other large power users, but announced no decision on a moratorium or data center-specific ordinance.
During public comment, resident Carmen Shuler again urged the city to adopt a six-month pause on new data center development while officials research standards and consider regulations. She said concerned residents had submitted a proposal seeking the moratorium and requested broader public discussions about impacts, tax abatements and future development.