Advocates warn of AI data centers’ harm to water quality at NC legislature
Advocates and community organizers, joined by N.C. Rep. Maria Cervania, voiced concerns at the General Assembly about the negative impacts of AI data center development on water quality and land use in North Carolina. Many municipalities have already implemented data center moratoriums to study local impacts. State lawmakers have also advanced comprehensive data center regulations, though their current status is uncertain.
North Carolina residents and community organizers, supported by Rep. Maria Cervania, a Morrisville Democrat, convened a press conference at the General Assembly to express strong opposition to AI data center development. Speakers highlighted concerns over the facilities' impact on water quality and supply, with many residents from rural areas fearing the potential for harm to their communities.
Luca Kennedy, communications manager at the North Carolina Environmental Justice Network, emphasized the need for protections for communities facing data center proposals, asserting a unified voice against such developments. Belinda Joyner, an organizer for Clean Water for North Carolina, called for greater transparency from local governments regarding data center projects, emphasizing the rights of tax-paying constituents to be informed.
The discussion also noted that many municipalities across North Carolina have already implemented data center moratoriums, which are temporary delays, to allow for further research into local impacts. Earlier this month, state lawmakers advanced what was described as the state's most comprehensive data center regulations, addressing how these centers are funded, cooled, and owned. However, Rep. Cervania indicated that updates on the bill's status are unavailable, with other legislation taking priority.
Carroll Olinger of Action NC shared personal struggles with PFAS contamination in Cumberland County water, underscoring the heightened concerns about water supply from new data center construction. Rep. Cervania urged voters to elect representatives who align with their values on regulating AI development.