Spalding County officials discuss data center zoning and power infrastructure concerns

Concerns over the impact of a proposed data center dominated the Spalding County Planning Commission meeting on April 29, 2025. The discussion highlighted the potential for significant power demands and infrastructure challenges as the county positions itself as a hub for data center expansions.

A key point raised during the meeting was the staggering power requirement of 200 megawatts for the new facility, which could serve approximately 5,000 to 10,000 homes. Critics questioned the source of this power and the financial implications of building new infrastructure. "If new lines and infrastructure need to be built, who pays for that?" one speaker asked, emphasizing the risks associated with relying on data centers that require stable power supplies. Concerns were also voiced about the long-term viability of such facilities, with fears that outdated technology could leave the county with abandoned structures.

The meeting also touched on the economic incentives that have made Georgia a leading state for data center development, including tax breaks and lower energy rates. However, some community members argued that the promised benefits, such as job creation and tax revenue, may be overstated. "The benefits to the community seem overblown," one resident stated, urging the commission to slow down the approval process and consider the long-term implications.

In response, representatives from the law firm Taylor English Duma presented a detailed overview of the proposed site, which is strategically located near existing power transmission lines and the new airport. They emphasized that the project aligns with the county's comprehensive plan for economic development and would generate substantial tax revenue—estimated at $26.8 million annually—equivalent to a significant portion of the county's budget.

The discussion concluded with a commitment from power providers, Georgia Power and MEAG, to ensure reliable energy supply for the data center, contingent upon the project's zoning approval. As the planning commission moves forward, the community remains divided on the potential benefits and risks associated with this ambitious development.