Catawba County EDC President Discusses Data Centers
Catawba County Economic Development Corporation President Scott Millar discussed public concerns regarding proposed data centers by Microsoft in Catawba County, North Carolina. Key issues raised include construction impacts, water usage, and electricity demands, with Millar clarifying Microsoft's reduced water use and Duke Energy's role in power regulation.
Scott Millar, President of the Catawba County Economic Development Corporation, appeared on WHKY with Rob Eastwood to address public concerns surrounding proposed data center developments in Catawba County, North Carolina. Millar acknowledged that data centers are a significant topic of discussion both locally and nationwide, particularly concerning four facilities planned by Microsoft in various county locations.
Millar addressed several key issues. He noted that construction-related problems are common for any large facility. A major public concern, water usage, was discussed, with Millar stating that Microsoft has publicly guaranteed that their new facilities will not use water beyond employee consumption, a significant reduction from initial permitting numbers. He contrasted this with much larger, AI-specific facilities that raise greater water concerns.
Regarding electricity, Millar explained that North Carolina is a regulated utility state, with Duke Energy overseeing power distribution, which helps prevent data centers from disproportionately impacting residential electric rates. He also briefly touched on general fears about artificial intelligence, clarifying that these local data centers are distinct from the speculative, massive AI facilities that often fuel such anxieties. Millar concluded by directing residents with questions to the Economic Development Corporation's website for further information.