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Utilities warn data centers may require costly infrastructure upgrades, but operators typically pay
Summary
Utility representatives told the committee large data centers can require substantial water and electric system upgrades; utilities said if upgrades are needed, developers/operators usually pay the cost, while closed-loop water cooling is preferred to limit discharges.
Members heard from utility representatives about the scale of water and electrical demands for data centers and the practical steps utilities take to evaluate and price service.
Corey Johns, executive director of the Joint Economic and Community Development Board, and water-utility representatives said closed-loop cooling systems are preferable and that large facilities sometimes require infrastructure improvements such as new substations or treatment capacity. "If it's an improvement directly to serve that entity, they pay 100% of their cost," a utility representative said, describing typical developer-funded upgrades. Utilities also noted commitments such as the Ratepayer Protection pledge that limit passing upgrade costs to existing customers in many cases.
Staff and utilities agreed the county should require a utilities checklist as part of application materials so the county has written confirmation that power and water providers have reviewed and can serve a proposed project or have identified needed improvements.
