South Carolina lawmakers draft data centre regulations

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 04:02 · Archive

South Carolina lawmakers are preparing legislation to regulate data centre expansion ahead of the 2027 legislative session.

South Carolina lawmakers are preparing regulations on data centre expansion, expected to be one of the biggest policy debates of the 2027 legislative session. Supporters say the facilities bring billions of dollars in investment and help position South Carolina for growth in the technology and artificial intelligence sectors. Critics, however, are raising concerns about their impact on power grids, water resources and the lack of information communities receive before projects are approved.

Senator Tom Davis, a Republican from Beaufort, is drafting legislation to regulate future data centre development. His proposal would require facilities to use closed-loop cooling systems that recycle water, encourage companies to generate their own power, and establish restrictions on where projects can be built. Davis said local governments will continue to have a major role in determining whether projects proceed, but the state can help provide a framework for decision-making.

Senator Russell Ott, a Democrat from Calhoun, said one of the biggest concerns from constituents is a lack of transparency surrounding proposed projects. Ott suggested lawmakers could require companies to publicly disclose projected energy and water demands before receiving approval.

How it is being reported

• As data centers expand, lawmakers look at new regulationsLawmakers are preparing for what could become one of the biggest policy debates of the 2027 legislative session.WISTV · 24 Oct, 03:28
• As data centers expand, lawmakers look at new regulationsAs data centers continue to emerge as one of the most talked-about issues on South Carolina’s campaign trail, lawmakers are preparing for what could become one of the biggest policy debates of the 2027 legislative session.Live5News · 23 Oct, 22:21

In this story: South Carolina · Tom Davis · Russell Ott

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