AI Leads Data Center Growth, TN Water Avail Leads To Interest

Reports indicate that data center developers are eyeing the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee, a trend attributed to the burgeoning artificial intelligence sector. Dr. Anthony Skjellum, a Computer Science Professor at Tennessee Tech, noted that AI is responsible for approximately 90 percent of current data center development. He explained that these optimized computing spaces, now often called "AI factories," are essential for running large language models like Grok and ChatGPT, which automate tasks and process information efficiently. Skjellum emphasized that these large-scale data centers require substantial amounts of water and electricity. Tennessee's ample water resources offer an economical solution for evaporative cooling, which helps dissipate the excess heat generated by numerous servers. Beyond the technical requirements, Skjellum highlighted the significant economic benefits, estimating that a new data center can generate 50 to 150 well-paying jobs, thereby boosting an area's economic development and local revenue.