LOWNDES COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — As drought conditions continue impacting parts of Georgia, concerns are growing over how expanding data centers could affect the state’s water supply.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers are facilities that store and process large amounts of digital information and support services like cloud computing, artificial intelligence and internet operations. The facilities often require significant electricity and water to keep servers cool and operating efficiently.

The renewed conversation comes as Georgia remains under drought response measures in several areas. State officials have encouraged residents to conserve water as conditions remain dry.

Chat Duboise, a Lowndes County resident and business owner, said he does not see major benefits from data centers for the average American.

“I haven’t really seen any major benefits to the average American out here that’s trying to make $60,000 a year,” Duboise said.

Water usage a major concern

Duboise said water consumption is a primary concern, especially during drought conditions.

“The droughts, our ground aquifers, where our quality water comes from, it’s a major concern,” he said.

Duboise said he has researched data center water usage and found the numbers significant compared to residential use.

He also raised concerns about environmental impacts, including the destruction of ecosystems, wildlife disruption and the clearing of natural land for power lines.

“We’re seeing ecosystems torn down. We’re seeing animals, plants, trees being destroyed,” Duboise said.

Job displacement and local control

As a business owner, Duboise said he sees how artificial intelligence could replace workers.

“I can replace a $40,000 employee with a $3,000 employee,” he said. Duboise said he is also concerned about land acquisition for data center infrastructure.

“The land grabs, seeing the ability for a corporation to come in and say, I’m going to take your whole backyard or I’m going to take your whole home. That blows my mind,” he said.

He said residents need to understand where power lines will be routed and who will be affected.

Duboise said local involvement is critical. “It’s important right now, more than ever for us to get involved in local decisions and local politics, more than anything national,” he said.

Supporters of data center development argue the facilities bring major economic investment, jobs and technology growth to Georgia. Opponents say communities deserve transparency about water usage, environmental impacts and how projects could affect nearby neighborhoods during periods of drought.

Environmental experts say the issue is likely to become more important as Georgia continues seeing population growth, rising temperatures and increased demand for both electricity and water.

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