Environment Georgia addresses water and air quality impacts of data center expansion

The Special Committee on Resource Management of the Georgia Legislature convened on May 22, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding the state's growing data center industry. The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding water usage, air quality, and land consumption associated with these facilities.

A key discussion point was the substantial water consumption of data centers, which average around 9 million gallons per day. This figure represents approximately one-third of the water drawn from the Chattahoochee River by Coweta County. The committee learned that existing and proposed data centers could collectively withdraw an estimated 68.5 million gallons of water daily, a volume comparable to the water usage of several medium-sized cities in Georgia. The implications of this consumption are particularly concerning in the context of potential droughts, prompting calls for further discussions on water management strategies.

Air quality was another critical topic, with data centers contributing to increased electricity demand and, consequently, air pollution. The committee noted that Georgia's air quality issues stem primarily from transportation and power generation, with data centers projected to drive a significant rise in electricity needs. This increase could lead to prolonged operation of coal and gas plants, further exacerbating air quality problems across the state.

The meeting also addressed the environmental impact of land use, with data centers occupying approximately 85 million square feet—equivalent to about 1,500 football fields. This land consumption raises questions about the long-term effects on local ecosystems and communities.

Committee members expressed the need for a comprehensive approach to managing the growth of data centers, emphasizing the importance of engaging with water planning councils and local communities to address these challenges. The discussions underscored the necessity for balancing economic development with environmental stewardship as Georgia navigates the complexities of its expanding data center landscape.

As the committee prepares for follow-up meetings, stakeholders are encouraged to consider the implications of data center operations on water resources, air quality, and land use, ensuring that future growth aligns with sustainable practices.