Wendell leaders to consider hold on data center construction, possibly joining others in central NC

The Wendell Board of Commissioners is set to deliberate on implementing a moratorium on data center development, a proactive measure undertaken despite a lack of immediate project proposals in the town. This consideration aligns with actions taken by several other municipalities and counties across central North Carolina, including Chatham County, which enacted a year-long moratorium in February 2024 to allow leaders to thoroughly assess the benefits and costs of such facilities. The initiative by Wendell and other local governments, such as Apex, stems from growing concerns about the rapid expansion of data centers and a perceived lack of comprehensive understanding regarding their implications. Apex Mayor Jacques Gilbert noted the community's limited knowledge, particularly after local residents successfully opposed a data center planned near the Shearon Harris Nuclear Plant. Key issues driving these discussions include the immense resource demands of data centers, specifically their significant electricity consumption for AI operations and considerable water usage—estimated at up to a billion gallons annually for a 250-megawatt facility. Environmental impacts are also a major concern for critics. While a Duke University study suggested data centers could potentially lower power costs by optimizing grid use, residents like Sarav Arunachalam of Protect Wake County are advocating for a thorough examination of negative impacts before decisions are finalized. As Wendell leaders prepare for their Monday meeting, a Wake County commissioners committee is also scheduled to address the broader impacts of data centers. In contrast to these moratoriums and considerations, Person County has already approved data center construction, with Microsoft poised to commence the permitting process this year, anticipating economic benefits for the county.