By:
Vareva Harris, Co-Editor
Vareva@thewoodrufftimes.com
COLUMBIA, S.C. — During a public hearing held Feb. 5 before the South Carolina Senate Agriculture, Natural Resources Committee, experts from multiple sectors delivered a consistent message: the most responsible path forward for data center development in South Carolina is co-existence.
That approach, speakers said, means balancing economic growth, infrastructure capacity, and community concerns—not choosing one at the expense of the others.
The hearing marked the first in a series of meetings planned by a Senate subcommittee examining the rapid growth of data centers across the state. Lawmakers convened utility providers, industry representatives, economic development professionals, and policy experts to provide sworn testimony on the benefits and challenges associated with the expanding sector.
A Growing Industry, Shared Infrastructure
Data centers have become a central part of South Carolina’s economic development strategy discussions, especially in municipalities. The discussions are driven by demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital services. With that growth comes increased demand for power, water, and communications infrastructure—systems that are also relied upon by residents, businesses, and local governments.
Experts emphasized that the core issue is not whether data centers belong in South Carolina, but how they are integrated responsibly. Several witnesses noted that modern data centers differ significantly from facilities built a decade or more ago. Today’s projects often include direct investments in utility infrastructure, helping accelerate upgrades that benefit the broader community.
At the same time, lawmakers acknowledged the concerns being raised by residents on social media and in local meetings—particularly around reliability, cost, and long-term planning.
Listening to Public Concerns
Committee members made clear they are paying attention to public feedback. Comments shared online and through constituent outreach were referenced throughout the hearing, underscoring the role public sentiment is playing in shaping the discussion.
They are reading.
They are listening.
Witnesses stressed that transparent planning, clear regulatory guardrails, and ongoing public engagement are essential to maintaining trust as development continues.
A Focus on Data Centers Cover their Costs
Throughout the hearing, speakers returned to a consistent theme: data centers covering their costs. The singular consensus is that data centers will cover their costs, and utility companies will not shift costs to customers.
Economic development professionals highlighted the jobs, tax base, and infrastructure investment associated with data centers.
Utility representatives discussed grid planning and capacity management. Policy experts addressed the need for updated frameworks to ensure growth does not outpace infrastructure.
Together, they deliberated that co-existence is achievable when growth is matched with intentional planning and shared responsibility.
More Hearings Ahead
The Feb. 5 hearing was the first of at least four scheduled by the subcommittee. All hearings are open to the public and can be viewed live or through archived video recordings.
Lawmakers say the goal is to gather comprehensive information ensuring South Carolina remains competitive while protecting communities and essential services.
As the discussion continues, one message from the hearing stood out clearly: informed decisions begin with facts, open dialogue, and a commitment to responsible growth.
Under-oath testimony about data center growth in South Carolina exposed many truths. State lawmakers, utility providers, data center developers, and economic development professionals are paying attention to the concerns and opportunities being discussed online and in-person about data center development in Spartanburg County and across South Carolina.
During the Feb. 5 public hearing before the South Carolina Senate Agriculture, Natural Resources Committee, experts from multiple sectors and lawmakers agreed on a central point: the most responsible path forward is co-existence—balancing economic growth, infrastructure needs, and community concerns.
Watch the under-oath testimony at: South Carolina Legislature Video Archives
Thursday, February 5, 2026, Upon Adjournment of the Senate
Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee — Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee on 867
South Carolina Legislature Video Archives
