Rep. Byron Donalds discusses campaign finance, data centers, the environment and more
Republican gubernatorial candidate Rep. Byron Donalds discussed Florida's existing policies regarding data centers, emphasizing state laws that prevent utility bills from increasing due to data center operations and require consumptive use permits for water. He highlighted that Florida is a regulated utility state with sufficient grid capacity and proximity rules. Donalds expressed his commitment to protecting Florida's natural resources and consumers while cautioning against moratoriums without thorough research.
Rep. Byron Donalds, a Republican gubernatorial candidate for Florida, discussed his stance on data centers during an interview on WJCT's "First Coast Connect" in Jacksonville. Donalds, endorsed by former President Trump and leading in polls, addressed concerns about the influence of campaign money and his policies regarding the state's rapid growth and environmental protection.
On data centers, Donalds acknowledged public opposition, citing that 70% of Americans oppose them nearby. However, he emphasized Florida's existing state laws that he believes protect residents. He highlighted that Florida is a regulated utility state, and current law (Senate Bill 484, signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis) prevents utility bills from rising due to hyperscale data center operations. He also pointed to regulations requiring consumptive use permits for water, akin to other large water users, contrasting this with older data center designs.
Donalds noted Florida has 5 gigawatts of excess power, limiting hyperscale data center construction to prevent grid strain and utility cost increases for residents. He also mentioned common-sense proximity rules, stating data centers "can’t be more than a mile away from a residential neighborhood." He advocated for a policy based on research rather than moratoriums or bans, suggesting newer data centers are often air-cooled or use closed-loop water systems. He reiterated his commitment to protecting Florida's water resources and preventing increased electricity costs for residents due to data centers.