Raleigh leaders take a closer look at data centers in the city

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Raleigh leaders are looking at the future of data centers in the city. After requesting a work session on potential impacts of data centers on local infrastructure, staff presented that information Tuesday.

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Cities across the state are starting to think about the long-term sustainability of data centers, which are facilities holding large capacity computers and servers and have become more in demand with the rise in AI.

The Raleigh City Council got an update on the potential environmental, economic, and community impacts of data centers.

One of the focuses was on water resource considerations because data centers require large cooling systems and water to prevent overheating.

The city does have some regulations in place for data centers as there are more than a dozen of them operating in the city right now. More may be requested in the future.

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City leaders are now looking at potential pros and cons of the facilities, such as the impact on jobs.

“While these data centers are being built, you’re talking about construction jobs,” Raleigh Chief Information Officer Mark Wittenburg told council members. “You’re talking about infrastructure improvement. You’re talking about investments into the community and then resources, that are being brought into the community. However, after they’re built, many of these are autonomous and so require a small job footprint.”

Raleigh is not alone in exploring the future of data centers. In Apex, there is a one-year mortarium on data center development.

Durham passed a 60-day moratorium last month. Cumberland County is considering a moratorium within their boundaries.

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