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Commissioners ask staff to prepare briefing on potential impacts of large-scale data centers
Summary
The Board unanimously directed staff to present by March 17 on electricity and water demand, land-use compatibility, environmental and utility-cost impacts, and policy options including moratoriums and UDO changes in response to growing data center interest.
Following a request added to the agenda at the start of the March 5 meeting, Orange County commissioners directed staff to prepare an informational briefing for the Board’s March 17 Business Meeting on potential impacts of large-scale data center development.
Commissioner Marilyn Carter said conversations at the National Association of Counties (NACO) conference emphasized the need for counties to assess impacts from rapid data center growth tied to AI and increased computing demand. Carter referenced prior bipartisan North Carolina proposals and noted local concerns about electricity demand and water usage for cooling systems that may affect resident utility costs.
The motion—made by Commissioner Carter and seconded by Commissioner Jamezetta Bedford—asked staff to address: projected electricity and water demands of large data centers in Orange County; land-use compatibility and potential UDO and comprehensive-plan changes; environmental and equity considerations (including noise and environmental-justice concerns); legal processes for options such as a temporary moratorium; and staff recommendations for Board action. The motion passed unanimously.
Commissioner Earl McKee said land purchases in neighboring Person County could route power through Orange County (Mayo Lake Power Station) and potentially affect countywide rates; commissioners asked that staff coordinate with utility providers and counsel on legal constraints. Commissioner Phyllis Portie‑Ascott recommended including environmental-justice analysis and consulting outside experts as needed.
Staff will return March 17 with an analysis of impacts and policy options, including next steps and potential timelines for any regulatory or plan changes.
