Orangeburg County considers one-year pause on data center developments
Orangeburg County leaders have taken a first step toward enacting a one-year moratorium on data center developments. This move is driven by concerns over energy consumption and a lack of clear regulations, following an unnamed company's interest in building a data center. The county council will vote on a second reading of the proposal on August 3.
Orangeburg County leaders have taken a preliminary step towards enacting a one-year moratorium on data center developments, with a first reading of the proposal advancing during a special meeting. Councilwoman Latisha Walker spearheaded the initiative after learning of an unnamed company's interest in constructing a data center in the area, prompting concerns due to a perceived lack of information on data centers and necessary regulations.
The proposed moratorium, described as a temporary halt on permits rather than a permanent ban, reflects a growing trend in South Carolina, with Fairfield County also advancing a moratorium and Newberry County adopting a pause last month. Residents voiced support for the measure, with Dr. Derrick James emphasizing the need for more information on potential impacts, and Linda Jefferson specifically citing concerns over energy consumption.
Adel Nasiri, an electrical engineering professor at the University of South Carolina, attributed the statewide pattern of government action to uncertainty regarding data centers' requirements for electricity and water, suggesting a need for better planning. Orangeburg County leaders are scheduled to vote on the moratorium's second reading on August 3.