South Carolina Governor addresses data center policy and moratoriums
What happened
Governor Henry McMaster stated he does not plan a statewide data center moratorium at this time, despite growing residential opposition and county pauses. He noted that at least 13 counties have passed moratoriums, including Colleton County, Spartanburg, and York counties. McMaster highlighted concerns over power supply and the resulting impact on power prices for residents. Separately, the General Assembly approved a budget attachment requiring large data centers to report water usage within a year.
Why it matters
The policy discussions affect the state's economic planning, particularly regarding infrastructure and resource allocation. The focus on power supply and water usage impacts the operating costs and feasibility of large commercial projects in the state.
Who's involved
- Henry McMasterGovernor of South Carolina, shaping state policy and legislation
- South CarolinaThe state where data center policies and moratoriums are being discussed
- Colleton CountyOne of the counties that has passed a moratorium on construction
- general assemblyThe legislative body that required large data centers to report water usage
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- South CarolinaSpeculative
South Carolina could see changes in power prices for residents and businesses due to data center power demands
- general assemblySpeculative
The General Assembly's requirement might increase compliance costs for large data centers due to water usage reporting
Keep exploring
The entities involved
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South Carolina
state of the United States of America
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Henry McMaster
American politician (born 1947)