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Gubernatorial candidate Tommy Tuberville said Alabama can build data centers without raising power bills, with counties and cities receiving monthly checks for schools and police. He also stated that data center placement is a local decision, not determined by the governor.

Tuscaloosa Thread · Alabama

Troy Planning Commission voted 5-0 to extend the city's data center moratorium, which was initially enacted in March for six months. The extension, pending city council approval later this month, would continue the moratorium until next March to allow monitoring of state legislative action on data center incentives.

The Troy Times Tribune · Mississippi

Headline onlyThe Commercial Appeal · Shelby Co., TN

Google is constructing a data center campus in West Memphis as part of a 20-year partnership with Entergy Arkansas. State lawmakers questioned Thursday how the project could impact ratepayers' power bills, with documents showing Entergy and Google plan a nearly $6 monthly increase over 20 years.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyrocketcitynow.com · Alabama

Yahoo · Mobile Co., AL

Sen. Tommy Tuberville announced Thursday he is co-sponsoring the Ratepayer Protection Act, which would require states to consider establishing standards ensuring that large electricity users like data centers, rather than families or small businesses, pay for related infrastructure costs. The House passed companion legislation Wednesday.

1819news.com · Alabama

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, a candidate in Alabama's 2026 governor's race, pledged that data centers can be built without raising power costs statewide, citing the Ratepayer Protection Act he cosponsored to require large power users to pay full infrastructure costs. Counties and cities hosting such facilities would receive monthly payments for schools and law enforcement.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

The U.S. House passed the Ratepayer Protection Act, which would require large power consumers like data centers to pay the full cost of infrastructure serving them. Senator Tuberville cosponsored the Senate version, saying it ensures Alabama residents won't bear costs for data center development.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

A Jefferson County Circuit Court judge consolidated three lawsuits against Birmingham involving the proposed Nebius AI data center, citing shared legal issues and efficiency. The cases, filed by the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, nearby residents Robert and Gail Sansome, and a class-action suit, address zoning, permits and construction impacts including noise and dust.

WVTM · Jefferson Co., AL

A proposed federal bill would require state utility regulators, including those in Alabama, to consider standards that require large data centers to cover costs for power infrastructure built to serve them, rather than passing those costs to households and small businesses. The House passed a companion version of the measure 417-3, and the Senate version must also pass before reaching the president.

Wiregrass Daily News · Alabama

Sen. Tommy Tuberville is cosponsoring the Ratepayer Protection Act, which aims to prevent data centers from shifting energy and infrastructure costs to consumers. The bill passed the House with bipartisan support and backing from Alabama's entire congressional delegation.

AL.com · Alabama

Fort Pierce's planning board delayed a decision on a proposal to rezone 200 acres near I-95 and Midway Road for a data center and commercial development, requesting further research while residents expressed mixed views on the project.

WPBF · Florida

Republican Byron Donalds proposes new regulations requiring data centers to use private power and water sources, while Democrat David Jolly proposes a one-year moratorium on data center construction with potential for a permanent ban. Donalds has received campaign contributions from data center industries, which opponents have criticized.

Miami Herald · Florida

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida · also at Yahoo, Bradenton Herald

Headline onlywtsp.com · Florida

Headline onlywtsp.com · Florida

Headline onlySuaraGarut.ID · Florida

A Florida non-profit argues that Duke Energy's proposal to serve data centers could create a multi-billion-dollar cost burden for other ratepayers. The utility filed a plan with state regulators to comply with a new data center protection law requiring disclosure that such costs won't fall on customers.

WFTV · Florida · also at Yahoo, WFTV

Headline onlyCoStar · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyThe Atlanta Journal-Constitution · Fulton Co., GA

Two Planning Board members resigned from Effingham County's advisory board this summer, citing transparency concerns related to a proposed OpenAI data center project. One member said he learned of the project through vacation phone calls rather than official county communication, raising questions about whether board members had adequate information to fulfill their advisory role on zoning and development matters.

Effingham Herald · Effingham Co., GA

CleanSpark's subsidiary plans to raise $2.227 billion through senior secured notes to complete its 175-megawatt Georgia AI data center facility leased to Meta's subsidiary Anviran LLC. The 20-year lease is expected to generate approximately $6.6 billion in contracted payments with annual rent increases.

TradingView · Georgia · also at Stocktwits

The Georgia Public Service Commission held its first administrative meeting outside Atlanta in nearly two decades in Savannah, where residents expressed concerns about rapid data center development during a two-hour town hall. The PSC established new requirements for large-load contracts, including the OpenAI project in Effingham County, which calls for a 25-year term and 3.2 gigawatts of demand with customer bill increases.

Coastal Courier · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlymarketscreener.com · Georgia

Microsoft filed a Developments of Regional Impact application to build a data center campus on 88 acres in Union City, southwest of Atlanta. The project includes two three-story buildings totaling 910,000 square feet with a planned launch in 2032.

DCD · Fulton Co., GA

CleanSpark plans to raise $2.227 billion through a secured debt offering to fund construction of its Sandersville, Georgia, AI data center. The senior secured notes, due in 2031, will cover remaining construction costs and fund debt-service reserves for the project backed by a 20-year lease with an unnamed technology company.

TheEnergyMag · Georgia

The Rome News-Tribune · Georgia

Rome city commissioners took no action Monday on a proposed moratorium on new data center projects while the city reviews regulations governing the facilities' development and location.

The Rome News-Tribune · Georgia

The Rome News-Tribune · Georgia

Rural Louisiana parish leaders have contacted state economic development officials requesting data centers after Richland Parish teachers received $50,000 year-end checks funded by surging sales tax collections from Meta's data center construction in the area. The sales tax distributions to the school district increased dramatically as thousands of workers arrived to build the facility, with collections climbing 60-70% and peaking at roughly 260%.

The Center Square · Richland Parish, LA

Louisiana is competing for a new U.S. Space Force academy following a presidential executive order, with state leaders and regional development groups coordinating the bid to complement SpaceX's planned facility. Louisiana Innovation secured $15 million in total funding to expand labs connecting manufacturers with advanced technologies in energy, aerospace, agribusiness and other sectors. State regulators agreed to expedite review of Cleco Power's plan to supply electricity to Applied Digital's $3.6 billion data center project in Rapides Parish, potentially reaching 430 megawatts by 2028.

Baton Rouge Business Report · Louisiana

Louisiana utility regulators have approved an expedited review of Cleco Power's plan to supply electricity to Applied Digital's $3.6 billion data center in Rapides Parish, bypassing the administrative law judge recommendation stage while still requiring an evidentiary hearing before commissioners decide the application's merits.

The Center Square · Rapides Parish, LA · also at New Orleans CityBusiness, KTBS 3

Entergy Arkansas voluntarily dismissed its federal lawsuit Wednesday seeking to block news organizations from publishing financial information related to Google's planned West Memphis data center, after a federal judge denied the company's request for a restraining order citing First Amendment concerns.

KVOM 101.7 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Deltaplex News

Entergy Arkansas withdrew its lawsuit against the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Times, and a resident over publication of West Memphis data center agreement details obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. A federal judge had previously denied the utility's request to temporarily block publication of the documents, which Entergy claimed contained confidential trade secrets.

kjnbtv.com · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyMagnolia Reporter · Shelby Co., TN

Entergy Arkansas withdrew its lawsuit against the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Times and a resident over their publication of details about the utility's data center agreement with a Google subsidiary, after a federal judge denied its request for a temporary restraining order.

KTLO · Shelby Co., TN · also at Yahoo, Arkansas Advocate

36 Kr · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyMoomoo · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyrocketcitynow.com

Headline onlyWKRN News 2

Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Water Development Board to enforce state water-use reporting requirements for major water users, including data centers, and coordinate with ERCOT to gather information on data center water consumption. Failure to complete the required water-use survey can result in legal consequences and permit disqualification.

waterworld.com

Headline onlywreg.com

San Jose residents and environmental groups are organizing against proposed data center projects the city has courted to become an AI infrastructure hub, raising concerns about electricity, water and pollution impacts. Mayor Matt Mahan says the answer is responsible development rather than halting projects, while California lawmakers have approved bills to increase transparency around data center energy and water use.

Miami Herald

Headline onlyKWWL · also at KWWL

Attorneys in three lawsuits challenging a proposed Nebius AI data center in Birmingham requested consolidation of discovery proceedings during a Wednesday hearing. The cases, filed by neighboring residents and the Greater Birmingham Humane Society, dispute the project's permitting and zoning while raising concerns about noise, dust, vibrations, and resource consumption.

WVTM · Jefferson Co., AL

The Brookwood City Council voted unanimously to annex and rezone the final land parcel needed for Youngwoo & Associates' planned data center campus, completing zoning approval for one of three separate data center projects proposed along the town's industrial corridor.

Tuscaloosa Thread · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

Headline onlywptv.com · Florida

A bipartisan bill from U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor will receive a House vote before the midterm recess. The Ratepayers Protection Act requires utility regulators to ensure large-load customers, such as data centers, cover their own increased power costs rather than passing expenses to other consumers.

Florida Politics · Hillsborough Co., FL

Florida's gubernatorial candidates are clashing over artificial intelligence data centers, with Democrat David Jolly proposing a one-year moratorium on new facilities to assess environmental and community impacts, while Republican Byron Donalds argues the state can accommodate the infrastructure while protecting communities and local control.

tampabay28.com · Florida

Orange County commissioners advanced a plan for a 6- to 18-month moratorium on data center development, with staff to draft a formal ordinance for a vote. The move follows similar actions by other municipalities nationwide amid concerns over large-scale data centers' environmental and quality-of-life impacts.

Orlando Weekly · Florida

Orange County commissioners agreed Tuesday they will likely impose a temporary moratorium on large data centers, joining more than a dozen other Florida governments in pausing such development. Commissioners expressed concerns about the facilities' massive consumption of water and electricity, as well as noise pollution from cooling systems.

Orlando Sentinel · Florida

Florida residents are increasingly opposing data centers that power artificial intelligence technology due to concerns about water and electrical demands. In the gubernatorial race, Democratic candidate David Jolly has proposed a statewide moratorium on data center construction, while Republican Byron Donalds, despite previously championing such projects, has shifted his position following public backlash.

Creative Loafing Tampa · Florida

Headline onlytcpalm.com · Florida · also at Yahoo

Orange County commissioners expressed support for a temporary moratorium on new data centers to allow time for developing regulations, with Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad advocating for at least a one-year pause. The board could vote on the proposal Dec. 1, citing concerns over the lack of current zoning rules and potential impacts on water, electricity, and noise.

floridapolitics.com · Florida

In Florida's gubernatorial race, Democrat David Jolly has promised a statewide moratorium on data center construction, while Republican Byron Donalds has softened his previous support for the facilities following public opposition but backs a state regulatory law. The debate centers on data centers' demands on water and electrical resources amid broader concerns about artificial intelligence's impact on employment and communities.

Florida Phoenix · Florida

Leon County commissioners unanimously approved an 18-month moratorium on large-scale data center applications to develop regulations addressing these facilities' potential impacts on water, electricity and infrastructure before projects arrive.

wtwcfox · Leon Co., FL

Orange County commissioners expressed support Tuesday for a temporary moratorium on large artificial intelligence data centers, joining 16 other Florida counties that have enacted similar bans. County staff will study concerns including zoning, water consumption, electricity loads, and noise impacts before commissioners potentially revisit the issue in December.

Central Florida Public Media · Orange Co. (FL), FL

Florida Democrats criticized Republican congressional candidate Byron Donalds' support for data center development, while his Democratic opponent David Jolly highlighted donations Donalds received from data center developers. Gov. Ron DeSantis opposed Amendment 1, which would increase the state's rainy day fund cap by 10 to 25 percent and require annual deposits up to $750 million.

Spectrum Bay News 9 · Florida

Headline onlywfla.com · Florida

The House passed legislation 417-3 requiring state utility regulators to consider standards for charging artificial intelligence data centers for power and transmission upgrades needed to serve them, aiming to protect consumers from higher utility bills.

The Alabama News Wire · Walton Co., GA · also at TribLIVE.com, WHNT.com, WKRG

Former Georgia Public Service Commission member Tricia Pridemore has joined data center company DC BLOX as executive vice president of energy, regulatory and policy. The move has prompted concerns about potential conflicts of interest, as the commission regulates utilities and their contracts with data centers.

Georgia Recorder · Georgia · also at newsfromthestates.com

The Georgia Public Service Commission held a meeting in Savannah to address coastal residents' concerns about a recently announced OpenAI data center in Effingham County and rising power bills. Commissioners discussed Georgia Power's OpenAI contract and heard public comments, with many attendees calling for increased transparency around the deal.

WABE · Chatham Co., GA

A Bowie County data center deal has become part of Georgia's gubernatorial race, with Democratic nominee Keisha Lance Bottoms criticizing Republican nominee Rick Jackson, whose company is developing the Texas project. Bottoms said the community opposes the data center and called on Jackson to disclose all his investments and state contracts.

Texarkana Today · Fulton Co., GA

Tricia Pridemore, former Georgia Public Service Commissioner, has joined Atlanta-based data center developer DC BLOX as executive vice president of energy, regulatory, and policy. She will serve as the company's chief liaison to energy providers, lawmakers and regulatory bodies while leading energy strategy and power purchase agreement negotiations.

Atlanta News First · Fulton Co., GA

The Georgia Public Service Commission held a town hall in Savannah where residents raised concerns about a proposed OpenAI data center in Effingham County. Georgia Power defended the project, stating OpenAI will pay for required infrastructure and the additional revenue will help lower costs for other customers.

WJCL · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlysavannahnow.com · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Effingham Co., GA

Democratic Senate candidate Jamie Davis argues that Republican Congresswoman Julia Letlow's refusal to debate him stems from her inability to discuss a nondisclosure agreement she signed regarding a Meta data center project in Richland Parish. Letlow signed the NDA while subsequently purchasing stock in Meta and Nvidia, disclosures she made more than a year late, and dozens of Louisiana elected officials have signed similar NDAs tied to major industrial projects.

Louisiana Illuminator · Richland Parish, LA

Rising artificial intelligence demand is driving increased data center construction in Mississippi, with AI expected to account for 50% of data center capacity by 2030, up from the current 30%, according to SuperTalk Mississippi reporting.

tippahnews.com · Mississippi

SuperTalk Mississippi Media · Mississippi

Headline onlyMississippi Today · Mississippi

Headline onlyMississippi Today · Mississippi · also at DeSoto County News, WJTV, WJTV

Headline onlyMississippi Today · Mississippi · also at DeSoto County News

Arkansas legislators questioned Google and Entergy representatives about funding for a new power plant being built to serve a Google data center in West Memphis, following disputes over how costs will be split between the companies and ratepayers. The dispute centers on whether Google will fully cover construction costs or only a portion, with ratepayers now paying through a new utility charge added in June.

KATV · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyWREG.com · Shelby Co., TN · also at NewsNation

Montgomery County proposed zoning updates that would require data centers to obtain approval for resource plans addressing water, electricity and noise, and restrict them to industrial zones. The measures follow Google's 2019 data center opening and anticipated future interest in the area.

Clarksville Now · Montgomery Co. (TN), TN

Gallatin city leaders advanced two six-month moratoriums on apartment and data center construction at Tuesday's council meeting, shortened from the originally proposed one-year terms. Both ordinances will return for a second reading at the council's next meeting.

News Channel 5 Nashville · Sumner Co., TN

Headline onlyThe Tennessean · Sumner Co., TN

Headline onlyThe Commercial Appeal · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

Serverfarm has expanded its revolving credit facility to $3.89 billion with an additional $895 million closing last month, funding data center projects across North America including campuses in Houston, Clarksville, and Atlanta.

DCD · Montgomery Co. (TN), TN

Arkansas lawmakers questioned Entergy officials Tuesday about data center projects and the utility's decision to charge ratepayers for a solar and battery storage facility serving Google's West Memphis facility. Republican Senator Mark Johnson criticized Entergy's lawsuit against the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette over reporting on power agreements and expressed concern about a new rider adding $22.81 to his power bill.

Magnolia Reporter · Shelby Co., TN

Arkansas lawmakers questioned Entergy on data center projects Tuesday, with concerns raised about passing costs for a solar and battery facility to ratepayers through a new rate rider approved under the Generating Arkansas Jobs Act of 2025. Republican Sen. Mark Johnson also criticized Entergy's unsuccessful lawsuit against the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette over reporting on Google power agreements.

Arkansas Advocate · Shelby Co., TN

The Memphis City Council postponed a vote on data center regulation moratorium until October 6, citing a need for more information about development impacts. Council members discussed potential tax revenue and addressed neighborhood concerns about the projects.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Action News 5, Action News 5

Google is building a data center campus at West Memphis and engaging with residents, a company official told the Arkansas Legislature's Joint Energy Committee. The state has two hyperscale data centers under construction and plans for four more, with Google's West Memphis facility expected to demand 600 megawatts of power.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyLowndes Signal

Communities across the country are blocking AI data centers through local moratoriums, zoning rejections, and ballot measures, with over 500 local measures passed nationwide. New York became the first state to pass a statewide moratorium in 2026, and federal legislation for a nationwide moratorium now has 14 House cosponsors.

Food & Water Watch

Headline onlyrocketcitynow.com

The Marysville City Council unanimously adopted a 12-month moratorium on data centers Monday. The ordinance pauses new data center development applications while the Planning Commission and city staff review zoning regulations and address stakeholder concerns.

The Marysville Advocate

The Brookwood City Council unanimously approved rezoning for a proposed three-data-center project despite resident concerns about power demand, noise, environmental impacts, and proximity to the middle school. Additional approval steps are required before construction can begin.

WVUA 23

The Brookwood City Council unanimously approved a rezoning request for a proposed data center site despite resident concerns about power demand, noise, environmental impact, and proximity to a middle school. Additional approvals are required before construction can begin.

WVUA 23

Headline onlyWVUA 23

Headline onlyWBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

Headline onlyBusiness Alabama Magazine · Alabama

Alabama's town supervisor says the municipality must decide soon on Stream U.S. Data Centers' $19.46 billion data center project application despite Gov. Hochul's one-year moratorium on new hyperscale data centers, citing statutory requirements for local approval timelines.

The Batavian · Alabama

Humans First, a conservative organization, held a news conference in Bessemer on Sunday opposing large-scale AI data center construction without community input. The group cited two planned projects—Project Marvel in Bessemer and Nebius in Birmingham's Oxmoor Valley—as examples of inadequate public consultation on major development.

alreporter.com · Jefferson Co., AL

Byron Donalds and David Jolly are proposing competing strategies to address Florida's home insurance crisis and regulate artificial intelligence technology in the governor's race. Donalds backs insurance report cards and catastrophe fund reductions, while Jolly advocates expanding the fund and taxing insurance profits to lower costs; the candidates also diverge on AI data centers, with Jolly opposing them entirely and Donalds proposing state protections.

Yahoo · Florida

Two leading candidates for Florida governor are highlighting contrasting approaches to home insurance costs and artificial intelligence regulation as the race enters its final weeks. Donalds proposes insurance report cards and reduced catastrophe fund spending, while Jolly calls for expanding the catastrophe fund through profit taxes and tourist dollars.

FOX 13 Tampa Bay · Florida

Tampa Bay Times · Hillsborough Co., FL · also at Yahoo

Inver Grove Heights amended its data center moratorium Monday to allow Florida-based developer QLevr to proceed with a 54,000-square-foot facility, averting a lawsuit seeking over $150 million in damages. The council voted 3-1 to exclude QLevr's application from the interim moratorium after the company challenged the ordinance in court.

Pioneer Press · Florida

A 22-year-old Florida woman who flew to California to meet a car-show organizer died alongside him in a fiery high-speed McLaren crash in Irvine early Sunday. Authorities are investigating what caused the vehicle to lose control, strike a curb and tree, then catch fire near Culver Drive and Deerfield Avenue.

al.com · Polk Co., FL

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Florida

Headline onlypalmbeachpost.com · Florida

Florida gubernatorial candidate Frank Russo unveiled the Florida Data Center Community Responsibility Act, proposing that data centers pay for their infrastructure impacts and direct tax revenue to host communities for local needs like road repairs and water system improvements.

PR Newswire · Florida · also at Morningstar

Orange County Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad is pushing for a temporary moratorium on artificial intelligence data centers, arguing the county currently lacks specific regulatory language for these facilities. The discussion is scheduled for the September 15th Board of County Commission meeting, with support from local elected officials and a grassroots organization citing concerns about impacts on water, energy, and natural resources.

West Orlando News · Florida

Orange County commissioners will discuss a possible temporary moratorium on AI data center development during a Tuesday board meeting, following Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad's June memo requesting at least a year's pause to update policies and study environmental impacts. Several Florida counties have already implemented temporary pauses on data center development.

FOX 35 Orlando · Florida

Orange County commissioners plan to address data center development, which lacks specific county regulations despite potential impacts on water and energy resources. Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad has recommended at least a one-year moratorium to study the facilities' effects before considering any applications.

Orlando Sentinel · Florida

Edgewater's City Council unanimously approved a permanent ban on artificial intelligence data centers, effective immediately, with a November ballot measure to place the prohibition in the city charter. City officials said the move protects residents from potential impacts of large AI data centers and prevents developers from submitting proposals before voters decide.

FOX 35 Orlando · Volusia Co., FL

The Alachua Planning and Zoning Commission passed a 12-month moratorium on data centers Tuesday night. Officials said no current data center projects are being discussed in the county, and clarified that a parcel central to discussions is outside county jurisdiction.

wcjb.com · Florida · also at wcjb.com

The Georgia Public Service Commission held its first administrative meeting outside Atlanta in nearly 20 years in Savannah, hosting a town hall where residents expressed concerns about rapid data center development, particularly OpenAI's planned 1,400-acre Effingham County campus. The PSC announced new requirements for large-load contracts, including long-term agreements and upfront infrastructure payments, with the OpenAI deal calling for a 25-year term and 3.2 gigawatts of demand.

Statesboro Herald · Chatham Co., GA

The Georgia Public Service Commission held a town hall in Savannah on Tuesday to address concerns about OpenAI's planned 1,400-acre data center in Effingham County, focusing on regulatory oversight, power demands, and customer protections. The PSC established new requirements for large-load contracts, including 25-year terms, minimum bills, and provisions preventing cost shifts to residential customers if the contract ends early.

Effingham Herald · Fulton Co., GA

Residents at a Georgia Public Service Commission forum in Savannah expressed environmental, health, and cost concerns about Georgia Power's role in supplying electricity to a proposed OpenAI data center in Effingham County, with critics questioning whether projected bill savings justify potential community impacts.

WTOC · Chatham Co., GA · also at WTOC

Several western North Carolina counties and municipalities have adopted temporary moratoriums on data center development while evaluating potential impacts, while Brevard has implemented permanent zoning regulations instead. Rutherford County is home to an existing Meta data center that opened in 2010.

WLOS · Walton Co., GA · also at WLOS

Byron's City Council approved a comprehensive data center ordinance establishing stricter guidelines for potential facilities despite resident opposition. A moratorium on data centers was also extended, though the mayor stated no confirmed project exists for the former Boy Scout camp site.

WGXA · Georgia

Georgia hosts more than 200 data centers, but a report by Greenlink Analytics and Science for Georgia predicts growth will "decelerate sharply after 2030," with annual growth dropping from 8-22% through 2030 to just 1-7% thereafter. Analysts warn that if utilities build infrastructure for demand that never materializes, ratepayers could face billions in stranded assets.

WABE · Fulton Co., GA

Augusta Commission members heard public comment Tuesday on a proposed data center ordinance that would regulate where such facilities can be located and establish operational requirements including noise, lighting, and cooling standards. The ordinance would exclude residential and agricultural zones and exempt a QTS data center already under construction, but residents urged commissioners to strengthen environmental standards, enforcement language, and procedural compliance before voting.

wrdw.com · Richmond Co., GA

Canceled data center projects leave utilities with infrastructure costs often passed to ratepayers, while the reassignment of capacity can take months or years. A 2026 survey found nearly one in five data center interconnection requests never materialize, creating a structural planning problem for utilities.

datacenterknowledge · Georgia

OpenAI is advancing plans for a massive data center campus in Effingham County, Georgia, prompting state regulators and environmental advocates to urge residents to push for stronger regulations governing water use, electricity, noise, air quality, and community benefits. The project, contracted for 3.2 gigawatts of power from 2028 through 2032, includes a promised $80 million in community benefits.

Effingham Herald · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

Effingham County residents gathered Monday to discuss Project Camellia, a proposed $20 billion OpenAI data center campus near Rincon that would require 3.2 gigawatts of electricity—comparable to powering over 2 million homes. The project, spanning 1,400 acres and promising up to 1,000 permanent jobs, is under review by the Georgia Public Service Commission due to its scale.

WJCL · Effingham Co., GA

lsureveille.com · Louisiana

American Press · Louisiana

Grow NELA launched an interactive dashboard that tracks Northeast Louisiana's economic growth through parish-by-parish sales tax collection data. Nine of 10 parishes showed increased sales tax revenue in Q1 2026 compared to the previous year, with Richland Parish experiencing dramatic growth tied to Meta's Hyperion data center construction.

Technical.ly · Louisiana

Mississippi county supervisors gathered at a two-day convening in Jackson to learn about data center development, an expanding industry statewide. Organizers brought in outside experts, including Brookings Institution representatives, to address concerns from local officials about potential impacts on utilities and water resources.

WLBT · Hinds Co., MS · also at WLBT

Amazon plans to invest $25 billion in Mississippi data center operations across three counties, creating 2,000 jobs, while Compass Datacenters plans a $10 billion campus in Meridian. The investments address Mississippi's long-standing challenge of retaining college graduates, with research showing about 47% of public university graduates remain in the state a decade after graduation.

WLOX · Lauderdale Co., MS

Hitachi Energy plans to invest $528 million in a Mississippi factory to produce electrical transformers for data centers and industrial operations, expected to begin operations in 2029. The plant represents the company's largest U.S. manufacturing investment and will roughly double the size of its existing Crystal Springs facility.

Nikkei Asia · Mississippi

Mississippi county supervisors are meeting to learn about data center development as companies explore building facilities in 15 counties statewide. The event addresses potential benefits like jobs and tax revenue, while critics have raised concerns about noise, pollution, water use, and power costs.

WAPT · Hinds Co., MS

Clarksdale, Mississippi residents are opposing a proposed hyperscale data center, citing concerns about pollution, water use, and strain on electrical infrastructure. City leaders promised tax revenue and jobs, but residents worry about insufficient public notification and doubt benefits would reach local residents.

The Cool Down · Mississippi

Headline onlyThe Black Chronicle · Tennessee · also at The Center Square

Headline onlyThe Commercial Appeal · Shelby Co., TN

Residents near a Southaven data center report persistent mechanical noise exceeding 60 decibels at night, disrupting sleep for over a year. Project representatives say millions are being invested in sound mitigation, but an installed sound wall has provided minimal relief.

The American Bazaar · Shelby Co., TN

A Memphis City Council member delayed a vote on a proposed one-year ban on new data centers until October 6, saying he would amend the ordinance to address fellow council members' suggestions while focusing on hyperscale facilities.

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN · also at Daily Memphian

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

Elon Musk is living in an Airstream trailer in Memphis while overseeing xAI's expansion of Colossus, a massive supercomputer center that has made deals to provide excess computing capacity to Google and Anthropic. Musk's presence on-site continues a long pattern of staying close to major projects requiring his direct attention.

Fortune · Shelby Co., TN

Elon Musk said he is currently living in an Airstream trailer while overseeing a data center buildout in Memphis, Tennessee, sleeping near the servers rather than commuting. Musk, described as the world's richest person, has a history of sleeping at workplaces, including at Twitter headquarters after acquiring the company in 2022.

Business Insider · Shelby Co., TN

The Black Chamber of Memphis hosted a roundtable Monday where civic, business, environmental and faith leaders discussed data center development's community impact, including the pace of new projects and policy recommendations. Memphis City Council is scheduled to vote Tuesday on a temporary data center moratorium.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Action News 5

Headline onlyThe Arkansas Democrat-Gazette · Shelby Co., TN

Orange County commissioners are debating a temporary moratorium on new AI data center applications after dozens of residents spoke in support, citing concerns about health impacts, energy consumption, air pollution, and water usage. Commissioner Kelly Semrad proposed at least a one-year pause to allow the county to update policies and study environmental impacts.

WESH

Headline onlyWREG.com

An estimated 5,000 gallons of diesel fuel leaked from an Equinix data center storage tank into Anderson Creek, a tributary of the Hackensack River, in New Jersey's Meadowlands. The spill was discovered Friday; cleanup crews are conducting recovery operations while state officials investigate the incident.

AL.com

Headline onlyTampa Bay 28

Dothan Eagle

Headline only13WMAZ

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WTVY

The Business Council of Alabama's political action committee is launching a statewide campaign called "Coach Means Business" supporting Republican U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville's gubernatorial bid, featuring billboards and grassroots efforts through November highlighting his tax-cutting and deregulation record.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Dothan Eagle · Alabama · also at The Tuscaloosa News, Montgomery Advertiser

The AI Data Center Revolt Tour visited Alabama to raise awareness about data centers' impact on rural communities and encourage residents to voice concerns about the technology's development and effects on local areas.

WVTM Channel 13 · Alabama

A nationwide "AI Data Center Revolt" bus tour stopped in Bessemer Sunday to raise awareness about large-scale data center projects in Alabama. The "Humans First" campaign organizers said they support technology but want transparency and community input before such infrastructure deals are finalized.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL · also at WBRC

Taylor County commissioners agreed to develop new land-use regulations for potential data centers covering noise, water, electricity, and other impacts, after rejecting a proposed one-year moratorium. No data center is currently seeking to locate in the county, officials said.

wtwcfox · Florida

Orange County commissioners will discuss a temporary moratorium on hyperscale data center construction Tuesday, following similar moves by dozens of Florida municipalities. Commissioner Kelly Semrad requested the discussion after constituents expressed concerns about AI data centers' impacts on noise, energy, water consumption, and property values.

Orlando Weekly · Orange Co. (FL), FL

Democratic nominee Keisha Lance Bottoms called for a statewide freeze on new data center projects, citing threats to Georgia's energy grid, while Republican rival Rick Jackson argued projects must meet strict local approval thresholds. The two traded accusations of hypocrisy over their respective ties to data center developments.

Atlanta News First · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyWRDW · Georgia · also at WRDW, WALB

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms criticized Republican Rick Jackson for his investment in a Texas data center and reiterated plans for a pause on new data center construction. Jackson's spokesperson acknowledged the investment and noted that a data center was approved in Midtown while Bottoms served as Atlanta's mayor and chair of Invest Atlanta.

Georgia Public Broadcasting · Georgia

Headline onlyRTO Insider · Georgia

Effingham County postponed its review of OpenAI's hyperscale data center site plan from its regularly scheduled Tuesday meeting. The county requested additional time to review the proposal, which was negotiated in secret and announced in late July, according to statements from county and OpenAI officials.

thecurrentga.org · Effingham Co., GA

Quiet Communities and Science for Georgia released findings from a national survey on noise pollution from data centers and cryptomining facilities. The study of 103 residents across 11 states found over 76% of respondents living more than half a mile away could still hear noise inside their homes, with sound levels exceeding 80 dBA comparable to factory floors.

GlobeNewswire · Georgia

The Georgia Chamber's Digital Infrastructure Alliance launched a six-figure statewide advertising campaign to educate residents about benefits of responsible data center development in communities throughout Georgia.

Marietta Daily Journal · Georgia

law.com · Georgia

Thor Equities has submitted plans for a 150-megawatt data center in Bartow County, Georgia, estimated to cost $1 billion and targeted for 2030 completion. The Kingston Technology Hub project would occupy 350,000 square feet and is projected to generate $2 million annually in local tax revenue and approximately 50 full-time jobs.

Data Center Dynamics · Georgia

Effingham County leaders will hold a town hall Monday to discuss OpenAI's proposed $20 billion Project Camellia data center, with community concerns focused on energy consumption, water usage, power grid impact, and effects on local electric bills and infrastructure.

Construction Review · Effingham Co., GA

AJC.com · Fulton Co., GA

RUM shares surged nearly 20% after a media report identified Anthropic as the customer behind the company's previously undisclosed $13.7 billion, six-year compute deal. The arrangement includes an equity option for Anthropic to acquire up to 51 million RUM shares and involves a data center facility in Georgia.

TradingView · Georgia

Headline onlyfox10tv.com · Effingham Co., GA · also at wtoc.com, fox10tv.com, WAFF

Louisiana has attracted major corporate projects including Meta's $50 billion data center, Hyundai's steel mill, and SpaceX's $100 billion rocket-launch complex since Governor Landry took office. National site selectors say the announcements signal Louisiana's ability to execute large, complex projects quickly across multiple sectors, though questions remain about workforce availability and whether the state can sustain reputation gains.

NOLA.com · Richland Parish, LA

Protesters with the activist group "Humans First" stopped in Boyce on September 12 as part of a 34-stop national bus tour opposing data center expansion, demanding stronger regulations, taxpayer inclusion in negotiations, and accountability from tech companies and lawmakers.

KALB | News Channel 5 · Rapides Parish, LA

Headline onlyfox10tv.com · Rapides Parish, LA

Three organizations hosted a free community training in Jackson on September 12th to educate residents about data centers' potential impacts on local communities, covering issues including water use, energy, land use and public resources.

Jackson Advocate · Hinds Co., MS

The Memphis City Council is scheduled to vote Tuesday on a proposed 12-month moratorium that would halt zoning and building permits for large-scale data centers. The measure aims to give city officials time to study the facilities' demands on the power grid, water supplies, and communities, though competing proposals suggest alternative approaches including permanent zoning guidelines and environmental regulations.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Action News 5

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN · also at Daily Memphian

Headline onlyWREG.com · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyWKRG

Headline onlyWBRC · also at WAFF

Headline onlyWDHN

Yellowhammer News

President Donald Trump dismissed calls from tech leaders for greater government oversight of artificial intelligence, saying his presidency should serve as sufficient safeguards and claiming there is a "SICK conspiracy" against AI and data centers. Vice President JD Vance said Americans should not fear AI but warned the country is in a technology race against China.

WVTM Channel 13 · also at WSFA, WTVY, Boston Herald

The House is expected to vote on the Ratepayer Protection Act, which would speed construction of AI data centers and prioritize their grid connection, according to reports. Over 200 advocacy organizations have opposed the bill, arguing it fails to protect ratepayers from increased electricity rates and water consumption.

Food & Water Watch

WBMA

The Senate returns Monday to vote on cryptocurrency regulation through the CLARITY Act, which would establish federal rules for digital assets and define oversight between the SEC and CFTC, though Democratic concerns about ethics provisions may impede progress. The chamber may also consider legislation on college sports compensation and a House bill addressing data centers' electricity costs.

Alabama Daily News

Headline onlyWBRC

Foley's City Council has approved a six-month moratorium on data center applications while the city develops regulations to address potential impacts on water, noise and electrical use. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said no facilities have been proposed, but the moratorium allows officials to prepare guidelines for any future applications.

fox10tv.com · Alabama

Alabama's contested divorce filings declined 37% from 2010 to 2025, falling from nearly 13,000 to just over 8,000. Madison County was the only significant exception, with about 43 more contested divorces in 2025 than 2010, attributed partly to Huntsville's rapid population growth of roughly 100,000 residents.

AL.com · Alabama

Fayette County in northwest Alabama had the state's highest divorce rate in 2025 with 186 cases, equating to approximately 57 filings per 1,000 married-couple households, according to Alabama Administrative Office of Courts data. Marion County had the next highest rate at about 31 filings per 1,000 married households.

AL.com · Alabama

The Foley City Council approved a six-month moratorium on data center construction to review regulations and prepare ordinances addressing water use, noise and air pollution concerns. The moratorium also covers cryptocurrency mining facilities and server farms.

1819 News · Alabama

The Data Center Revolt bus tour, led by Humans First chair Amy Kremer, arrives in Jacksonville as Florida's fourth stop on a 31-stop national route opposing data center development. Florida has already enacted SB 484, requiring data centers to cover their own utility and infrastructure costs while giving local governments zoning authority, with several counties implementing outright bans or moratoriums on such facilities.

Florida Politics · Duval Co., FL

Headline onlyFlorida Today · Florida

A northeastern Louisiana rental property owner who operates 18 homes says construction workers from Meta's new AI data center comprise most of her tenants, with fully-furnished homes near the site renting for around $3,000 monthly compared to $1,200-$1,500 before the facility's announcement.

Business Insider · Richland Parish, LA

Georgia Conservation Voters Education Fund and One Hundred Miles will host a nonpartisan town hall September 14 in Springfield for Effingham County residents to learn about Project Camellia, a proposed $20 billion OpenAI data center campus planned near Rincon. The event will address community questions about the project's potential impacts on electricity bills, the power grid, water resources, and how residents can participate in the Georgia Public Service Commission's review process.

Grice Connect · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlyAtlanta Daily World · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyWABE · Georgia

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

Columbia County, Georgia leaders are negotiating a strategic economic development partnership with Google for an 8-million-square-foot data facility. County officials say the project could generate billions in revenue and lower property taxes, though residents have raised concerns about water and electricity demands.

The Cool Down · Richmond Co., GA

AI data centers have become increasingly controversial during the 2024 election cycle, with public opinion shifting against them despite initial enthusiasm from some political leaders. A recent poll found 51% of Americans view new data center construction as bad for the country, citing concerns about rising electricity bills and declining home values, prompting governors across both parties to impose restrictions and demand tighter regulations.

NOLA.com · Richland Parish, LA

Headline onlyValleyCentral.com

Headline onlywsav.com · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyWKRG · Mobile Co., AL

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Yasmins Food Mart in Fairfield received the week's lowest inspection score of 73 after inspectors found spoiled raw chicken with black and gray discoloration and moldy red velvet cake, along with missing soap, paper towels, and a food thermometer. Three other Jefferson County food establishments also scored below the satisfactory 85-point threshold during first-week September inspections.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

Headline onlygovtech.com · Jefferson Co., AL

A 44-year-old Birmingham man died at UAB Hospital after being struck by a vehicle Wednesday evening on 4th Avenue Southwest in Bessemer. The driver remained at the scene, authorities said.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

A Birmingham resident is suing the Industrial Development Board, its chairman, and AI company Nebius over $3.2 billion in tax abatements for a data center project, claiming the approval process violated the Open Meetings Act and that the board lacked authority to grant the breaks.

al.com · Jefferson Co., AL

State Sen. Sam Givhan says over 55% of voters in his district oppose data centers, citing preference for high-paying jobs like those from Eli Lilly and Mazda Toyota. Givhan announced plans to eliminate tax incentives for data centers in Alabama.

1819 News · Madison Co., AL

Data centers have emerged as a dominant midterm election issue in Alabama, Nevada, and Pennsylvania, with voters across party lines opposing large AI computing facilities due to concerns about electricity costs, water usage, environmental impacts, and limited long-term job creation. Democratic and Republican candidates are responding with varying positions, from stricter regulations to tax abatement reviews.

The American Prospect · Jefferson Co., AL

Fairfield Mayor Herman Carnes Jr. visited a Patmos data center campus in Kansas City to assess the company's proposal to convert an abandoned Walmart Supercenter in Fairfield into a co-location data center and technology campus. Patmos founder John Johnson has assured residents that noise concerns will be minimal, with generators equipped with mufflers and the loudest equipment housed inside.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

Edged Energy's attorney has threatened to sue Prichard after the city questioned a building permit previously issued for a data center on Telegraph Road, claiming the developer followed all instructions and was never told Planning Commission review was required.

fox10tv.com · Mobile Co., AL

The Escambia County Commission declined Thursday to establish a data center moratorium, affirming that data centers are already banned in unincorporated county areas under existing land development code and a previously approved ordinance.

NorthEscambia.com · Florida

Florida's Public Service Commission is reviewing Duke Energy Florida's proposed data center tariff to determine whether households will subsidize costs for major power users. Consumer advocates argue Duke's filing fails to comply with Senate Bill 484 by lacking a distinct rate schedule for large-load customers, while Duke contends its proposal includes sufficient protections.

The Cool Down · Florida

Chatham County commissioners approved a 155-day moratorium on large data centers of 10 megawatts or larger in unincorporated areas, making it the third Coastal Georgia county to enact such a ban. The county will study conditions for data center development while prioritizing public health and safety during the pause period.

thecurrentga.org · Chatham Co., GA

Effingham County, Georgia commissioners voted 4-1 to approve property tax relief measures tied to OpenAI's planned 3.2-gigawatt data center facility, with officials projecting a 30% average reduction for households and potential elimination of residential property taxes for qualified homesteads by 2028 under "Project Zero."

Daily Signal · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlyThe Real Deal · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

Major technology companies including Meta, Amazon, and Hut8 are developing AI data centers across Louisiana parishes, leveraging the state's natural gas resources for energy. The state is expanding broadband access through the federal BEAD program, targeting statewide high-speed internet coverage by 2028 to serve approximately 1.7 million currently unserved residents.

Pelican Institute · Louisiana

A Missouri-based company plans to build a data center near Moss Bluff, about eight miles north of Lake Charles, but residents oppose the project. A local representative says residents chose Moss Bluff as a bedroom community and want to preserve its residential character without commercial or industrial development.

louisianaradionetwork.com · Louisiana

Entergy is building transmission lines and a substation to supply power to Meta's data center in northern Louisiana, but some landowners, including the Perry family, are fighting the utility's use of eminent domain to acquire their property. Most affected landowners settled with Entergy, but several dozen property owners across multiple tracts are pursuing legal action to block the expropriation.

NOLA.com · Ouachita Parish, LA

Headline onlyRTO Insider · Louisiana

Southaven Mayor Darren Musselwhite says artificial intelligence represents the next industrial revolution, with SpaceXAI data centers in the city playing a key role in national security amid competition with China. Musselwhite acknowledged noise issues from a SpaceXAI power plant but said the company has addressed concerns through mitigation efforts and acoustic engineering specialists.

DeSoto Times-Tribune · DeSoto Co., MS

Environmental advocates are calling for light pollution regulations at data centers, which are expanding rapidly across the United States. A physics professor recommends downward-facing lights, motion detectors, and warm-colored lighting to reduce pollution while protecting nocturnal wildlife and migratory birds.

tippahnews.com · Mississippi

SpaceXAI has installed what may be the nation's largest battery at its Memphis data center, with satellite imagery showing 720 Tesla Megapack containers and company officials describing capacity ranging from 2.8 to 3.3 gigawatt-hours. The Tennessee Valley Authority approved the battery's connection to its grid in August.

Canary Media · Shelby Co., TN

The Nashville NAACP and Stand Up Nashville held a town hall Thursday featuring data center experts to discuss impacts from facilities like xAI's Memphis hyperscale center. Speakers detailed air, water and noise pollution concerns in affected communities, with state Rep. Aftyn Behn planning legislation to pause data center tax breaks next session.

WSMV · Davidson Co., TN

Walker County's data center study group recommended limiting large data center development to industrial parks with industrial zoning only. The committee also suggested impact studies on pollution, water and electricity use, and proposed generator restrictions and buffer zone requirements.

Local 3 News

Headline onlyMontgomery Advertiser · also at Montgomery Advertiser

Headline onlyWTVY

Headline onlyWBRC

A Regions Bank shareholder has sued bank officers and holding companies over the sale of Birmingham land now being developed into a Nebius data center, alleging the bank missed out on more than $66 million when the property sold for $17.2 million and resold within a day for $83.5 million.

WVTM · Jefferson Co., AL

Applied Digital Corporation, developer of a Brookwood data center, donated $25,000 to U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville's gubernatorial campaign in August. Democrat Doug Jones criticized Tuberville for accepting campaign funds from tech companies building data centers in Alabama while holding stocks in major tech firms.

wvua23.com · Alabama

Headline onlygovtech.com · Alabama

Foley's City Council voted Tuesday to approve a six-month moratorium on data center development, joining other Alabama cities taking similar action despite no known proposed projects in the area. The ordinance allows officials to study potential impacts and update regulations before any such facilities arrive.

AL.com · Alabama

Foley City Council approved a six-month moratorium on data center and cryptocurrency mining facility applications Tuesday, giving city officials time to review regulations and prepare guidelines for potential future proposals. The moratorium restricts acceptance and processing of applications for data centers, Bitcoin and cryptocurrency mining facilities, server farms and similar operations.

mynbc15.com · Alabama

A Regions Bank shareholder sued the bank's officials and AI company Nebius Inc. over the sale of property in Birmingham for a $36 billion data center, alleging Nebius fraudulently acquired the property for $17.2 million and resold it the same day for $83.5 million. The shareholder claims bank officials breached fiduciary duties by failing to conduct proper due diligence on the property's value.

AL.com · Jefferson Co., AL

The Jefferson County coroner is seeking help locating families of four people who died recently of natural causes: Bobby Keener, 73; Paul Wakefield White, 71; Curtis Lee Piggee, 76; and Dorothy A. Crawford, 71. Anyone with information is asked to contact the coroner's office at 205-930-3603.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

Republican gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds says millions of dollars in campaign contributions from artificial intelligence and data center interests don't influence his policy positions, though he has supported industry-friendly proposals including small modular nuclear reactors and closed-loop water systems. Donalds has recently shifted toward supporting local control over data center siting, a position his Democratic opponent David Jolly contrasts with his earlier statements opposing bans.

floridapolitics.com · Florida

North Port released revised application documents for the proposed Deep Park data center showing it would occupy approximately 112 acres with seven buildings spanning roughly 896,000 square feet. The project proposes average potable-water demand of 15,500 gallons daily and would impact approximately 4.34 acres of wetlands, with the applicant proposing mitigation bank credits to offset losses.

Sarasota Magazine · Florida

A planned Wavegarden surf park approved for Koa Bay west of Fort Pierce in 2020 could be replaced with a data center and retail hub following a June 17, 2026 rezoning filing. The proposed shift reflects growing demand for data infrastructure in fast-developing areas.

The Cool Down · Florida · also at Yahoo

Miami Lakes Town Council will consider an ordinance next week to ban artificial intelligence data centers as a principal use in the municipality. The measure would define and prohibit dedicated data centers in the town's Land Development Code.

Florida Politics · Miami-Dade Co., FL

X and OpenAI disclosed they disrupted suspected Chinese inauthentic accounts spreading claims that U.S. data center development raises electricity prices and strains power grids. The author argues Florida should carefully evaluate data center projects while resisting foreign manipulation campaigns targeting the domestic debate over computing infrastructure's strategic importance.

Miami Herald · Florida

Thor Equities is proposing a $1 billion, 350,000-square-foot data center on nearly 560 acres in Bartow County north of Atlanta, expected to deliver by 2030 and generate $2 million annually in local tax revenues while employing 50 full-time workers.

Bisnow · Fulton Co., GA

The Georgia Public Service Commission will hold a public forum in Savannah on September 15, where residents can address commissioners about utility regulation and other concerns affecting their communities during a period of rapid data center development in southeast Georgia.

Coastal Courier · Chatham Co., GA

DeKalb County officials upheld denial of Shadowbox Studios' 1 million-square-foot data center proposal along International Park Drive, though the company plans to continue fighting in court. The studio claims it received written confirmations from the county planning department authorizing data center use before the county enacted a moratorium on new facilities.

95.5 WSB · Fulton Co., GA

Levy County commissioners approved a temporary moratorium on data center applications in unincorporated areas, effective Oct. 1 through Sept. 30, 2027, to allow staff time to study potential impacts and develop regulations for the high-power-demand facilities.

chronicleonline.com · Georgia · also at chronicleonline.com

Buttondown · Fulton Co., GA

Azimuth Renewables is exploring a data center development north of Moss Bluff on over 1,100 acres, but the company has not submitted applications for the zoning variance or rezoning required. Calcasieu Parish currently lacks ordinances defining data centers, and no timeline exists for bringing proposed ordinances to the parish boards for adoption.

KPLC 7 News · Louisiana

Former EPA officials warn that data center expansion to support artificial intelligence could impose $11.7 billion to $20.9 billion in annual public-health costs by 2028, including roughly 600,000 asthma cases and 1,300 premature deaths, citing a 2026 academic study. The Environmental Protection Network's report contends the EPA is weakening pollution safeguards and limiting public participation in permitting decisions as data centers proliferate.

Louisiana Illuminator · Louisiana

Entergy Louisiana agreed to ease confidentiality restrictions allowing representatives from the Alliance for Affordable Energy and Union of Concerned Scientists limited access to sensitive evidence in the utility's multibillion-dollar power expansion case related to Meta's Richland Parish data center. The agreement does not provide access to underlying Meta records the groups sought through an unsuccessful subpoena last month.

The Center Square · Richland Parish, LA · also at New Orleans CityBusiness

NOLA.com · Louisiana

Headline onlyMississippi Today · Mississippi · also at Mississippi Free Press, Louisiana Illuminator

Headline onlywkrn.com · Davidson Co., TN · also at WKRN News 2, AOL.com

Boxtown residents are requesting cancellation of the paused Paul Lowry Road project, which would have provided a second access point to an industrial park housing a data center. City officials say they will consider revising, alternative solutions, or ending the project during the pause.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN

A National Association of Realtors report found data centers' effects on housing markets vary by location, with no clear single impact, though counties with 10 or more data centers showed higher median home values but also higher residential electricity rate increases. Data centers demonstrated clearer positive effects on commercial real estate, with half of surveyed Realtors reporting increased commercial property values and industrial properties near data centers commanding rent premiums.

WBMA

Headline onlyLowndes Signal

Headline onlyWKRG

Headline only13WMAZ

Headline onlyThe Newark Advocate

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WSFA, WTVY, WAFF

Headline onlyWBRC

A Regions Financial Corporation shareholder filed a derivative lawsuit alleging bank officers sold a Birmingham property for $17.2 million that was resold the same day for $83.5 million, claiming damages of $66 million. The property, now being developed by Nebius for an AI data center, was transferred three times in one day through different entities.

WBRC 6 News · Jefferson Co., AL · also at WSFA, fox10tv.com, WTVY

A statewide poll shows Republican U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville leading Democratic former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones 49% to 41% in Alabama's gubernatorial race. The candidates diverge on data center policy, with Jones proposing development restrictions and Tuberville supporting continued expansion with taxpayer safeguards.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

The Tarrant, Alabama city council approved a one-year moratorium on business licenses for data centers to allow time for a feasibility study examining potential impacts on utilities, infrastructure, and community services before establishing local regulations.

WBRC · Alabama · also at WBRC

Alabama gubernatorial nominees Tommy Tuberville and Doug Jones released their first television campaign ads as the general election campaign intensifies. Jones' ad criticizes Tuberville's support for data centers and acceptance of campaign contributions from a related company, while Tuberville's ad highlights his tax-cutting record and proposes eliminating the state's grocery tax.

Alabama Daily News · Alabama · also at Decatur Daily

Headline onlyWAFF · Alabama · also at WAFF

Tarrant city officials approved a 12-month moratorium on data center development as a precautionary measure while preparing for potential future projects. Mayor Tracie Threadford said no developers have approached the city, though several buildings for sale could potentially accommodate smaller data center operations.

WBMA · Alabama · also at WBMA

A Mobile homeowner shot and killed a man who broke through a window on Sept. 7, according to police. The Mobile County District Attorney's Office is reviewing the case for possible self-defense under Alabama's stand your ground law.

fox10tv.com · Mobile Co., AL

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Hillsborough Co., FL

Tampa Bay Times · Hillsborough Co., FL

Taylor County commissioners voted to bring an engineering firm to their next meeting to help add data center regulations to the county's land development code. The process is expected to take several weeks.

WCTV · Florida

Solar developers are rapidly expanding utility-scale solar projects across Georgia to capitalize on expiring federal tax incentives and meet rising power demand, particularly from data centers. However, projects face local opposition citing concerns about property values, environmental impacts, and community character changes, with at least one lawsuit filed against a planned solar farm.

Bisnow · Georgia

The DeKalb County Zoning Board of Appeals upheld its denial of Shadowbox Studios' proposal to build a data center on its property, citing concerns about an ongoing lawsuit. The decision leaves the studio's plans to be decided by DeKalb County Superior Court.

Atlanta News First · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA

Headline only13WMAZ · Georgia · also at Yahoo

Augusta's government released a final draft of a proposed Data Center Ordinance, which will be presented to the Augusta Commission on September 15, 2026. The 29-page proposal establishes zoning, siting, development, and operational standards for data centers and High-Density Computing Facilities.

wfxg.com · Richmond Co., GA

Augusta has released a final draft of a proposed data center ordinance ahead of a Sept. 15 commission vote. The 29-page document prohibits data centers in residential and agricultural areas, establishes noise limits of 65 decibels during the day and 60 at night, requires 500-foot buffers from homes, and mandates closed-loop cooling systems.

WRDW · Richmond Co., GA

The DeKalb County Zoning Board of Appeals upheld a staff decision denying Shadowbox Studios' request to build a 1 million-square-foot data center on 155 acres, citing the county's moratorium on new data center development approved in July and extended three times through March 2027. Shadowbox is challenging the denial in court, arguing the moratorium is invalid.

decaturish.com · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA

Google's proposed Monroe County data center has advanced, though concerns about noise, environmental impact, and growth persist among Central Georgia residents.

Yahoo · Georgia

The Pelican Institute has engaged Louisiana regulators on two proceedings: a rulemaking on privately financed electrical networks to serve large industrial customers, and a proposed rule requiring disclosure of funding sources for groups intervening in Public Service Commission proceedings. Pelican argued that private electrical networks allow Louisiana to attract major investment without exposing ratepayers to risk, while urging narrower donor-disclosure requirements focused on foreign adversaries rather than all out-of-state funding.

Pelican Institute · Louisiana

blackchronicle.com · Caddo Parish, LA · also at thecentersquare.com

Memphis City Council faces competing proposals over data-center development: a one-year moratorium backed by residents concerned about pollution and noise from Elon Musk's Colossus facility in predominantly Black neighborhoods, and a regulatory framework that would allow construction to continue while enforcing emissions standards.

Word In Black · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyKnoxville News Sentinel · Knox Co., TN

A Nashville Democratic representative is proposing a three-year freeze on state tax exemptions for data centers and requiring the Tennessee Department of Revenue to report the money the state loses through these breaks and disclose which facilities hold exemption certificates.

Tennessee Lookout · Davidson Co., TN

SpaceXAI is powering its Colossus artificial-intelligence data center in Memphis with dozens of temporary gas turbines installed across the Mississippi border in Southaven, sparking legal challenges over air permits and pollution in nearby residential neighborhoods. The temporary turbines, which grew to 69 units by July, were installed under a Mississippi rule allowing portable equipment to operate for up to a year without air permits, though the NAACP sued arguing the operation constitutes an unpermitted power plant.

Scientific American · Shelby Co., TN

State Rep. Aftyn Behn proposes a three-year pause on new data center tax exemption certificates while Tennessee improves tracking of their financial impact. The proposal requires annual reporting on exemption costs, participating facilities, and compliance data; currently 25 active exemption certificates exist statewide.

Local 3 News · Davidson Co., TN

Gallatin city leaders unanimously advanced a proposed 12-month moratorium on new data center development during a Tuesday work session, with a formal vote scheduled for next week. The pause would allow city staff to refine zoning regulations distinguishing between different types of facilities, such as edge data centers and larger hyperscale operations.

WZTV · Sumner Co., TN · also at WZTV

The U.S. Energy Information Administration projects U.S. power consumption will reach record highs in 2026 and 2027, driven by increased demand from AI data centers and electrification efforts.

Dothan Eagle

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WBRC, WSFA

A 15-year-old girl from Decatur, Alabama, reported missing was found safe in a Sparta, Tennessee home on September 3 by the White County Sheriff's Office and FBI. A male suspect was arrested at the scene; the FBI is investigating how he transported the girl across state lines.

WZTV · Morgan Co., AL

Tarrant City Council will hold the first reading Tuesday of an ordinance establishing a temporary moratorium on data-center business license applications while city officials study potential impacts on electricity, water, infrastructure and public safety. The measure aims to give Tarrant time to develop standards for the facilities before considering applications.

WBMA · Alabama

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Patch · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

Childersburg is considering a data center development on the site of a former World War II-era explosives plant that also produced heavy water for the Manhattan Project. The contaminated 1,600-acre industrial park has remained largely vacant for over 70 years, though a developer is currently conducting environmental assessments on the property.

AL.com · Alabama · also at AL.com

Sen. Tommy Tuberville has proposed allowing communities to decide on data centers, extending an Alabama Power rate freeze, and placing facilities in the highest property tax bracket. However, the plan lacks mechanisms to enforce infrastructure payments and requires a constitutional amendment to grant local governments decision-making power—a process that could take years.

Alabama Reflector · Alabama

A permit application indicates Applied Digital Corporation, a Dallas-based company, plans to build a 2-million-square-foot data center in Brookwood on Industrial Parkway. Brookwood Mayor Joe Barger confirmed the proposed development is an AI data center but said no project has been signed yet.

WBRC · Alabama

A 15-year-old runaway from Decatur, Alabama was found safe in White County, Tennessee after Flock cameras tracked a vehicle belonging to Brian Schalk, a former Tennessee deputy now charged with statutory rape and harboring.

WAFF · Morgan Co., AL

Data center projects in central Alabama involve multiple stages from land acquisition through construction, with jurisdictions like Chelsea and Homewood implementing moratoria while officials evaluate impacts. Developers typically identify sites with power access and infrastructure before seeking rezoning, annexation, permits and other approvals that provide opportunities for public input on concerns including water use, noise and traffic.

WBMA · Alabama

Panama City held the first public hearing on an ordinance that would temporarily halt new data center developments for one year while city staff reviews zoning rules and studies potential impacts including water and electricity use. The pause would allow officials to research how other communities handle data centers and develop recommendations.

WKRG · Florida · also at WKRG

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida

Proponents of data centers in Florida argued at a Florida League of Cities conference that the facilities represent necessary infrastructure for the digital economy, while addressing concerns about water usage and property values. Speakers noted that existing data centers in other states have generated significant tax revenue and that Florida's regulatory frameworks can oversee responsible development.

Mid Florida Newspapers · Florida

Central Florida real estate experts discussed whether large AI data centers could affect property values. While one study found homes adjacent to data centers might see negative impacts, a Realtor.com analysis of 43 U.S. zip codes found home prices trended similarly with or without local data centers, though experts cautioned that longer-term impacts remain unclear.

Spectrum News 13 · Florida

The West Virginia Department of Commerce certified two data center projects for Mason County: the Nscale Monarch Campus in Point Pleasant, which would include a biomass and carbon-capture facility, and "Project Tamarack" by Florida-based Starwood Digital Ventures, representing a $12 billion investment located 20 miles north of the Monarch Campus.

West Virginia Watch · Florida · also at The Register-Herald, Yahoo

Headline onlynewsfromthestates.com · Florida

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida

The Escambia County Commission will consider scheduling public hearings to vote on a 12-month moratorium on data centers with anticipated monthly peak loads of at least 10 megawatts but less than 50 megawatts, following prior anti-data center actions by the county.

NorthEscambia.com · Florida

Candler County Commissioners voted 4-0 to table discussion of data center projects and related zoning ordinances for unincorporated areas, citing the need for all commissioners to be present before taking formal action. The matter involves a proposed data center project near the airport and Interstate 16 that may require municipal annexation.

The Georgia Virtue · Georgia

Three Effingham County residents sued to invalidate a zoning change approved without required public hearings that would allow data centers on industrial property, a decision tied to OpenAI's planned $20 billion data center project in the county.

CBS News · Effingham Co., GA

New York-based Thor Equities has filed a Development of Regional Impact proposal for a $1 billion, 350,000-square-foot data center in Kingston, Bartow County. The project would generate $2 million in annual tax revenue and is scheduled for completion in 2030, marking Georgia's 17th new data center project announced since January 1.

thecentersquare.com · Georgia · also at The Black Chronicle, thecentersquare.com, The Augusta Press

A 350,000-square-foot data center is proposed for the Kingston area in Bartow County through a Development of Regional Impact filing. The $1 billion project by Thor Acquisition of New York would employ approximately 50 people and generate roughly $2 million in taxes.

wrganews.com · Georgia

A proposed $1 billion data center development called the Kingston Technology Hub has been submitted for state approval in Bartow County. The 350,000-square-foot facility on 559 acres is expected to generate $2 million in annual tax revenue and create approximately 50 full-time jobs upon completion.

Coosa Valley News · Georgia

Tennessee State Rep. Aftyn Behn has proposed legislation to pause new data center tax exemptions for three years and require reporting on their financial impact, citing lack of transparency about revenue loss and grants. The state Department of Revenue confirmed 25 active exemption certificates statewide but does not track revenue lost or grants awarded.

WZTV · Walton Co., GA · also at WTVC

The Atlanta metro area has surpassed Northern Virginia as the top market for data center construction in the first half of 2026, according to a CBRE report. Georgia's under-construction capacity surged 52.3% year-over-year to 2,882 megawatts, supported by competitive tax incentives and lower operating costs.

USA Today · Fulton Co., GA

Atlanta has more data center capacity under construction than any other U.S. primary market, with 2,882 megawatts in development compared to its current 1,803 megawatts, according to a CBRE research report. Georgia's appeal stems from its business environment, tax incentives, workforce and lower operating costs, though project approvals and power delivery remain challenges.

WSB-TV · Fulton Co., GA

Louisiana has attracted over $81.6 billion in data center investments and projected 2,000-plus permanent jobs while offering long-term tax exemptions, but the state has not publicly disclosed how much tax revenue will be forgone. States tracking similar exemptions show the facilities generate substantial tax activity during construction but often fail to offset the incentive costs.

Biz New Orleans · Louisiana

A Caddo Parish zoning official suggested alternatives to restrict data centers through ordinances and nuisance laws rather than zoning, citing that a master plan needed for expanded zoning authority would take years while data centers are already arriving.

The Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate · Caddo Parish, LA

State Rep. Aftyn Behn plans to introduce legislation for the 2027 session proposing a three-year pause on new data center tax exemptions while the state improves tracking their financial impact. The bill would require the Department of Revenue to annually report exemption costs, identify facilities receiving them, and provide compliance information.

Local 3 News · Davidson Co., TN

Broadband Breakfast · Tennessee

A man was arrested in Hawkins County, Tennessee, after cell tower vandalism caused network outages early Sunday. The suspect was taken into custody by afternoon; authorities recovered items connected to the thefts and vandalism during the arrest.

Data Center Dynamics · Tennessee

Kentucky has yet to see a hyperscale data center open, but Gallatin, Tennessee's Meta facility offers insights into potential impacts. Residents near the 900-acre campus report concerns about water usage, low humming sounds, dust during construction, and property value effects, while city officials highlight revenue and infrastructure improvements.

WKU Public Radio · Sumner Co., TN

Headline onlyWZTV · Sumner Co., TN · also at WZTV, WZTV

Headline onlywsfa.com · also at WTVY

Headline only13WMAZ

Community members concerned about a proposed data center development in Munford are invited to a public meeting scheduled for Sept. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Munford Recreation Center Gym, located at 65 Mitchell St.

The Anniston Star

Headline onlyWWLP

Headline onlyWSAV-TV

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WSFA, KOLO | 8 News Now, WBRC

Headline onlyWBRC

Bessemer City Schools closed Abrams Pre-K Center after mold was discovered, relocating students to their previously assigned schools. Superintendent Michael Turner has declined multiple interview requests and has not publicly addressed discrepancies in the district's timeline regarding when mold concerns were first reported.

WBMA · Jefferson Co., AL

State Sen. Sam Givhan says residents of his Huntsville district overwhelmingly oppose new data center construction in the Tennessee Valley. Several Alabama cities have enacted moratoriums on data centers, and Givhan plans to introduce legislation eliminating tax incentives for such projects in the state.

yellowhammernews.com · Madison Co., AL

Morgan County commissioners imposed a one-year moratorium on data centers after residents opposed a bitcoin mining operation, but lack enforcement power since state lawmakers, not counties, hold regulatory authority over unincorporated areas. Only three of Alabama's 67 counties have land-use authority, and county officials adopted a resolution opposing industry-specific zoning while calling for comprehensive growth strategies.

AL.com · Alabama

Headline onlyMontgomery Advertiser · Montgomery Co., AL · also at The Tuscaloosa News

Tampa Bay Times · Hillsborough Co., FL · also at Yahoo

Amazon has filed applications with the FCC for three ground stations with six antennas each in Florida, Minnesota, and Texas to support its planned 3,232-satellite broadband constellation. The company previously announced plans to install over 300 ground stations to expand downstream capacity.

Data Center Dynamics · Florida

The Georgia Public Service Commission will hold an administrative session and public forum in Savannah on Sept. 15, where residents can address the regulatory body about utilities and concerns. The meeting runs from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Chatham County Administrative Building, with participants limited to three-minute comments.

Statesboro Herald · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

The Rome News-Tribune · Georgia

Google backstopped $3.2 billion in lease obligations for TeraWulf's AI data center campus in New York, acquiring a 14% stake while keeping the debt off its own books. The arrangement mirrors Meta's $27 billion Blue Owl-financed data center campus in Louisiana, part of a broader pattern moving over $1.6 trillion in AI infrastructure debt into financial footnotes rather than balance sheets.

Startup Fortune · Louisiana

Trump continues promoting AI data center development as essential for U.S. competitiveness with China, but Republican candidates are adopting tougher positions as voter concerns grow over electricity costs, water consumption and land use ahead of midterm elections. Washington insider Armstrong Williams said technology companies should bear infrastructure costs and be transparent about impacts, while candidates ignoring local opposition face political risk.

WBMA · also at WBMA, KTXS, KATV

Headline onlyazcentral.com and The Arizona Republic

Birmingham Township supervisors will hold a public hearing Sept. 8 on a proposed ordinance that would allow data centers in two commercial zoning districts under conditional-use approval, subject to restrictions on noise, water consumption, power generation, setbacks, and emergency planning.

MyChesCo · Jefferson Co., AL

Headline onlyWinter Haven News Chief · Polk Co., FL · also at Lakeland Ledger

North Port held an informational workshop on data centers featuring speakers from the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority and the Florida Digital Infrastructure and Security Alliance. Dozens of residents attended, with most opposing data centers and some voicing concerns about water usage, energy consumption and environmental impacts.

yoursun.com · Florida

Walker County's data center regulatory committee held its first meeting while a moratorium remains in place. Over 40 attendees discussed potential regulations including water cooling systems, utility rates, sound monitoring, and increased setbacks between commercial and residential properties.

Chattanooga Times Free Press · Walker Co. (GA), GA

Statista · Georgia

Headline onlyFOX 5 Atlanta · Georgia

Holy Tacos, opened in Rayville, Louisiana in April 2025, attributes approximately 40% of its monthly business to Meta's nearby AI data center construction, including catering orders to man camps that range from $4,000 to $7,000. The restaurant's owners say the data center has revitalized the declining community, though construction has brought dust and noise to nearby Holly Ridge.

Business Insider · Richland Parish, LA

West Memphis Utilities clarified that its customers will not face bill increases due to Google's data center project, as Google bears financial responsibility for the utility infrastructure required to serve the facility.

jonesborosun.com · Shelby Co., TN

Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville raised $829,000 in August for Alabama's gubernatorial race, while Democrat Doug Jones brought in $803,000. Tuberville entered September with $9.51 million cash on hand compared to Jones' $2.53 million.

Decatur Daily · Alabama

Both major parties are spending over $45 million on campaign ads since January criticizing data centers for excessive tax breaks and rising electricity costs. A June poll found 77% of Americans concerned about data centers raising power bills, making it a bipartisan campaign issue in competitive gubernatorial and Senate races.

NPR · Florida · also at WABE

Orange County commissioners are considering a temporary moratorium on new artificial intelligence data center applications while officials study potential environmental and resource impacts. Vice Mayor Kelly Martinez Semrad proposed the pause, citing concerns about water and electricity consumption, noting that modern AI data centers can use as much power as 100,000 homes and consume up to 5 million gallons of water daily.

WKMG · Florida · also at WKMG

Headline onlyChattanooga Times Free Press · Paulding Co., GA

U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock called for a statewide moratorium on data center construction after visiting OpenAI's proposed 3.2-gigawatt facility in Effingham County, citing residents' concerns about utility costs, water consumption, and pollution. Warnock cited lack of transparency in negotiations between communities and data center corporations.

wrganews.com · Effingham Co., GA

Walker County's new Data Center Development Standards Study Committee is developing regulations for data center expansion, addressing power, water, setbacks, and tax incentives. The county currently has no ordinances specifically regulating data centers in unincorporated areas.

The Rome News-Tribune · Walker Co. (GA), GA

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN · also at Daily Memphian

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt endorsed President Trump's Ratepayer Protection Pledge for data centers, which requires companies to protect consumers from price increases and lower electricity costs. Britt said local communities should decide data center placement case-by-case and opposed both a national ban and widespread facility placement.

1819 News

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Doug Jones challenged Republican opponent Tommy Tuberville to divest from investments in artificial intelligence and data centers and back stronger state ethics laws.

timesdaily.com

An investigative report alleges a left-wing activist network behind "No Kings" protests is leading opposition campaigns against AI data centers and Flock cameras nationwide, with organizers seeking to turn local grievances into national movements. The report names groups including CodePink and describes alleged ties to Shanghai-based businessman Neville Roy Singham.

WBMA

Headline onlyWBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Three people—one man from Montgomery and two women from Huntsville—were arrested following a traffic stop near William E. Donaldson Correctional Facility in Bessemer on Thursday. A K-9 alerted during the probable-cause stop, leading officers to discover a taped package in the vehicle; the suspects were taken to Jefferson County Jail.

WBRC 6 News · Montgomery Co., AL

Headline onlyGovTech · Morgan Co., AL

In August, 40 food establishments in Jefferson County, Alabama scored below 85 on health inspections and failed to meet compliance standards. Violations included improper food temperatures, unsanitized equipment, pest contamination, and expired certifications; several reinspected locations achieved passing scores.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

Republican gubernatorial nominee Tommy Tuberville has shifted his public stance on data center development, now calling for communities to have veto power and higher taxes on the facilities, while previously advocating for rapid expansion. A statewide poll showed 70% of Alabamians want data centers regulated or opposed.

Tuscaloosa Thread · Alabama

Headline onlyLowndes Signal · Alabama · also at lowndessignal.com

Democratic gubernatorial nominee Doug Jones questioned Republican opponent U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville's stock trading and investments in the AI data center industry, citing over 250 trades in AI and data center companies worth between $5.2 million and $14 million during Tuberville's first five years in the Senate. Jones called for ethics reforms and proposed Tuberville divest from data center-related holdings if elected governor.

Alabama Political Reporter · Montgomery Co., AL

Decatur has adopted regulations requiring data center developers to obtain special exemption permits and conduct studies on water consumption, power usage, fire protection, noise, hazardous materials and waste. The city council approved the ordinance to proactively regulate potential smaller facilities, though no developers currently propose projects there.

AL.com · Morgan Co., AL · also at AL.com

Sen. Katie Britt called for Congress to enact President Trump's Ratepayer Protection Pledge for data centers into law, while opposing national moratoriums but supporting local authority to reject such projects. Britt and other Republicans are navigating political pressure as data center opposition grows, with some GOP candidates increasingly opposing the projects ahead of midterm elections.

Yahoo · Alabama

Sen. Katie Britt said Congress should codify President Trump's voluntary Ratepayer Protection Pledge for data centers into law, while supporting local authority to reject projects. Britt backs bipartisan efforts to manage data center infrastructure demands and opposes national moratoriums but advocates for community choice on development.

Semafor · Alabama

Headline onlyWKRG · Mobile Co., AL

Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly released an advertisement labeling Republican opponent Byron Donalds as a "data center darling," claiming he would expand such facilities in Florida. Donalds has received over $4.1 million from tech and energy companies and a $5 million Super PAC commitment, though his campaign says these contributions won't influence his decisions.

WESH · Florida

Telxius is building a carrier-neutral cable landing station and Edge data center in Cancún, Mexico to serve as the landing point for the Tikal submarine cable connecting Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, with Boca Raton, Florida, scheduled to launch in the first half of 2027.

DCD · Florida

HostDime's CEO says the company will open its seven-story data center in Eatonville by October, with final inspections scheduled for late September. The project, which was supposed to open in June 2024, has faced repeated delays since the company purchased the property in 2016.

Orlando Sentinel · Orange Co. (FL), FL

Rising diesel costs concern Iowa voters, while Michigan residents worry about potential electric rate increases from data centers, Alaska faces soaring fuel prices, and Florida deals with the nation's highest home insurance premiums—distinct affordability issues shaping competitive Senate races.

The Washington Post · Florida · also at The Detroit News

orlandosentinel.com · Florida

Republican gubernatorial nominee Byron Donalds campaigned at Born & Bread Bakehouse in Lakeland, meeting with supporters for over an hour. He faces Democratic nominee David Jolly and NPA candidate Frank Russo in the November general election.

Lakeland Gazette · Polk Co., FL

Data center developers are increasingly targeting rural southeast Georgia, including Effingham County where OpenAI is planning a project, attracted by regional infrastructure, cheaper land, and tax incentives from state and local governments.

WRDW · Effingham Co., GA

Haralson County signed a $45 million land deal for over 1,600 acres with Georgia-Tallapoosa LLC that could become a data center, sparking resident opposition to preserve the county's rural character. The city of Tallapoosa annexed the property, but city council approval is required before development proceeds.

FOX 5 Atlanta · Georgia

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

Georgia Congressman Buddy Carter said OpenAI plans to build a massive data center in the state, which he said would bring jobs and economic growth, though left-wing groups oppose it. Carter discussed GOP strategy ahead of midterm elections and President Trump's scheduled convention speech.

Fox Business · Georgia

The Alabama News Wire · Newton Co., GA · also at wkrg.com, WHNT.com

Data center developers are increasingly targeting rural southeast Georgia, attracted by regional infrastructure, cheaper land, and tax incentives. A Georgia Southern University official noted potential economic benefits but warned of environmental concerns including pollution, heat, energy consumption, and noise from cooling systems.

WTOC · Effingham Co., GA · also at WTOC, WTOC

Louisiana Delta Community College is training residents for entry-level data center jobs at Meta's Richland Parish facility through two four-week programs that cost $3,698 each. More than 100 students have graduated since January, with all finding employment; entry-level fiber technicians earn $18-$24 hourly.

WWNO · Richland Parish, LA

Extreme heat this week pushed electricity demand on TVA's system to a record for the year, surpassing levels from January's ice storm. TVA officials say they expect no power shortages or load curtailment as high temperatures continue through the holiday weekend.

News Channel 5 Nashville · Tennessee

Headline onlyKATV · Shelby Co., TN · also at KATV, KATV, KATV

Gadget Review · Shelby Co., TN · also at Yahoo

Starlink's 50% discount on its Residential Plan in Memphis, offered in response to community protests over a nearby data center project, has attracted over 2,000 new customers. SpaceX agreed to replace 69 unpermitted portable gas turbines powering the Southaven facility with 41 permitted permanent turbines by July 2027.

driveteslacanada.ca · Shelby Co., TN

Gadget Review · Shelby Co., TN

An outage at a Memphis data center disrupted Grok and other AI services on Thursday for several hours. The failure affected Grok on the X platform and mobile apps, and also impacted partner platforms including Anthropic's Claude models and OpenAI services, though the specific cause remains undisclosed.

dev.ua · Shelby Co., TN

Tom's Hardware · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlytech-insider.org · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlythv11.com · Shelby Co., TN · also at Yahoo

A new Beacon Center of Tennessee poll shows Republican Marsha Blackburn leading Democrat Jerri Green 55% to 34% in the gubernatorial race. The same poll found President Trump's approval rating underwater in Tennessee at 48% approve, 51% disapprove—the first time since Beacon began polling in 2023.

newschannel9.com · Tennessee

Headline onlyWAFF · also at wtvy.com, WBRC

timesdaily.com

Headline onlymynbc15.com · Mobile Co., AL · also at WBMA, KATU, WBMA

Democratic gubernatorial nominee Doug Jones called for a moratorium on new data center proposals in Alabama and stricter stock-trading restrictions for state officials. Jones criticized current state Senator Tommy Tuberville's investments in Chinese artificial intelligence and data center companies while serving in Congress.

Spectrum News · Alabama · also at spectrumlocalnews.com

wvua23.com · Alabama

Nebius spokesperson Leah Davis defended the company's controversial Birmingham data center project in the Oxmoor Valley neighborhood, stating the facility will operate responsibly and won't burden residents with noise, utilities, or other environmental costs. The project faces multiple lawsuits claiming violations of zoning laws.

WBHM · Jefferson Co., AL

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Doug Jones challenged Republican Tommy Tuberville to divest from AI and data center investments and support stronger state ethics laws, pointing to Tuberville's federal disclosures showing over 250 stock trades in related companies. Jones proposed banning statewide officials from buying and selling stocks while in office and ending nondisclosure agreements on data center deals.

Alabama Daily News · Jefferson Co., AL · also at blackbeltnewsnetwork.com, Decatur Daily

AL.com · Alabama

Alton Rayburn Smith, 86, of Moulton died September 1 at his residence. A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 5 at Parkway Funeral Home Chapel, with visitation Friday evening. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Barbara, two daughters, and two granddaughters.

Decatur Daily · Morgan Co., AL

State leaders addressed questions about data center water and power usage at a Talladega County meeting Wednesday, noting safeguards exist against rate increases. Some residents oppose a proposed data center in the area, while lawmakers plan to visit Georgia facilities and said communities should decide locally whether to pursue such projects.

WBRC · Alabama · also at WBRC

A North Port workshop examined the potential power and water consumption of a proposed AI data center. Panelists from the Peace River Manasota Water Supply Authority and Florida Power & Light discussed infrastructure impacts, while some residents expressed concerns about local water availability.

mysuncoast.com · Florida

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Florida

Okaloosa County commissioners rejected banning data centers, instead directing staff to develop regulatory standards for the facilities, including conditional-use approval requirements, within 60 days.

WEAR-TV · Florida

Multiple recent polls show majorities of Floridians oppose building data centers in their areas, with opposition ranging from 49% to 79% depending on how surveys phrase the question, according to PolitiFact's analysis of University of North Florida, James Madison Institute, and Change Research polling data.

wlrn.org · Florida

Headline onlyAxios · Florida · also at Yahoo

Florida Politics · Florida

The Tampa Bay Economic Development Council is targeting data centers and maritime industries in its three-year strategy, with research from peer markets and workforce development plans underway. The EDC reported 2,280 jobs and over $275 million in capital investment in fiscal 2025, with major commitments from Philip Morris International and defense contractor Orion Edge.

tbbwmag.com · Hillsborough Co., FL

Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds said he supports local control over AI data center approvals in Florida, vowing to protect communities from rising utility costs and water impacts. His position contrasts with Democratic opponent David Jolly, who proposed an immediate moratorium on all such centers.

Floridian Press · Florida

Georgia Public Broadcasting · Georgia

Headline onlyLocal 3 News · Walker Co. (GA), GA

Shadowbox Studios is appealing DeKalb County's denial of its proposed 155-acre data center project, claiming the county promised in writing it could build there. The county disputes this, citing an ongoing moratorium on new data center applications; a zoning board hearing is scheduled for Sept. 9.

decaturish.com · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA · also at WABE

Augusta will hold a final public meeting tonight on proposed data center regulations requiring facilities to maintain at least 500 feet from residential areas, meet noise limits, and use closed-loop cooling systems. The ordinance would not apply to an already-planned QTS data center near a residential neighborhood, prompting nearby homeowners' concerns.

WRDW · Richmond Co., GA

Atlanta's mayor's office is developing a comprehensive data center strategy with findings due by October 30, 2026, to examine how growth in the sector could affect the city's infrastructure, communities, utilities, workforce and tax base. The strategy will analyze water and energy demands, appropriate locations, potential community impacts, economic opportunities and how other cities manage data center development.

ATL Direct · Fulton Co., GA

A lawsuit filed by three Effingham County residents challenges the county commission's zoning approval for OpenAI's planned hyperscale data center, alleging officials skipped a required public hearing before allowing data centers on industrial-zoned land without conditions.

thecurrentga.org · Effingham Co., GA

Three Effingham County residents filed a lawsuit challenging a zoning ordinance they allege violated Georgia law and county ordinances by being adopted without required public hearings, claiming the process enabled approval of a 1,400-acre data center project. The plaintiffs contend county commissioners weakened the Planning Board's authority and made zoning changes during closed meetings without public notification.

The Georgia Virtue · Effingham Co., GA

Democrats and Republicans in Georgia differ on data center policy ahead of upcoming elections. Sen. Raphael Warnock supports a statewide moratorium with exceptions, while Gov. Brian Kemp and other Republicans favor empowering local communities to decide on data center development individually.

tippinsights · Georgia

Georgia taxpayers are projected to spend $2.4 billion this year in tax breaks subsidizing data center construction, according to a commentary. The author argues the subsidies are unnecessary given the AI industry's expected $2.5 trillion in global private investment and notes polling shows majorities of Americans and Georgia voters oppose data centers in their communities.

Now Georgia · Georgia

Georgia taxpayers will spend an estimated $2.4 billion in tax breaks this year to subsidize data center construction, according to an opinion piece criticizing the subsidies as unnecessary given strong private investment in artificial intelligence and public opposition to such facilities in communities.

Georgia Recorder · Georgia · also at Cobb Courier

A Georgia Public Service Commissioner said Effingham County residents will not see higher electricity bills from OpenAI's proposed $20 billion data center, as OpenAI will cover all costs for the facility's power and grid upgrades under an agreement approved by state regulators.

WJCL · Effingham Co., GA

Georgia ranks third nationally for planned data center development, driven by competition for artificial intelligence computing power that national security experts describe as critical geopolitical currency. A Georgia Southern University professor warns that rapid AI infrastructure expansion brings cybersecurity risks and resource sustainability concerns.

WTOC · Georgia

CleanSpark surpassed 30 EH/s of operational hashrate after acquiring two Mississippi data center facilities that added 75 MW of operational power capacity. The company reached the milestone ahead of schedule, strengthening its position among public Bitcoin miners.

TradingView · Mississippi

Headline onlyThe Clarion-Ledger · Mississippi

Technology companies are increasing climate commitments but not quickly enough to offset rising energy consumption from artificial intelligence expansion, according to a report by the U.N.'s International Telecommunication Union and the World Benchmarking Alliance monitoring 200 major tech firms.

The Japan Times · DeSoto Co., MS

The Tennessee Valley is well-positioned to become an economic hub for artificial intelligence data centers, which are driving massive infrastructure spending and creating blue-collar jobs in construction trades, manufacturing, and rail transport. The region's abundant electricity supply through TVA, combined with strategic incentives and community benefit agreements, could attract major hyperscale facilities and reindustrialize the area.

timesfreepress.com · Tennessee

SpaceX's AI division apologized for a Grok outage caused by an outage at its Memphis compute center and said all systems have been restored. The incident was part of a widespread outage affecting multiple AI platforms including ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, with peak reports exceeding 36,000 on Downdetector.

PCMag · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

A federal judge denied Entergy Arkansas' request to block news organizations from publishing financial records about Google's West Memphis data center, citing First Amendment concerns about prior restraint. The underlying lawsuit over trade secrets remains pending in federal court.

KVOM 101.7 · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyThe Tennessean · Davidson Co., TN

A federal judge denied Entergy Arkansas' request to block the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and Arkansas Times from publishing details about a data center agreement with Google subsidiary Altitude Capital LLC. The Democrat-Gazette had published documents obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request showing Google will pay Entergy $526 million for a solar facility supporting the project.

The Arkadelphian · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyWKRN News 2

Headline onlyWHNT.com

Democrats plan to campaign against a tax provision in President Trump's "big beautiful bill" that they say allows data centers to be built in opportunity zones, areas designated to help underdeveloped communities. Republicans dispute the characterization, arguing the zones permit diverse development types, not just data centers.

WBMA · also at nebraska.tv, KBAK, KVAL

Vermont Conservation Voters launched a campaign called "Don't Data Center Vermont" to raise awareness about potential environmental and community impacts of large-scale data centers. The effort comes after Governor Phil Scott vetoed H.727, legislation that would have established protections before such facilities could be built in the state.

Waterbury Roundabout

The EPA proposes eliminating a federal requirement that states notify the public and seek comment before issuing air pollution permits for data centers and other industrial facilities. Critics argue the plan could prevent communities from learning about or opposing proposed facilities, while EPA officials say it grants states flexibility in permitting processes for minor pollution sources.

wvtm

Brookwood Mayor Joe Barger defended proposed data centers at a town hall Tuesday, saying research and conversations with other communities resolved his initial concerns. Dozens of residents questioned the three projects, citing worries about proximity to Brookwood Middle School, water usage, noise and power bills, with a council vote scheduled for September 15.

Tuscaloosa Thread

WBMA

The EPA has proposed eliminating a federal requirement that states notify the public and seek comment before issuing air pollution permits for data centers and other industrial facilities. Environmental groups argue the plan could allow states to approve projects without public input or community awareness.

WKMG · also at WHNT.com, WKRG, Orlando Sentinel

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WSFA

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WSFA

WVUA 23

Headline only11Alive.com

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Doug Jones called for a one-year moratorium on data center development and attacked Republican opponent Tommy Tuberville for holding significant investments in AI and data center companies, including Chinese firm Alibaba. Jones also demanded stronger state ethics laws and an end to secretive data center deals.

BirminghamWatch · Jefferson Co., AL

Legal experts disagree on whether Alabama cities can ban data centers. While a Birmingham official cited federal zoning law prohibiting outright bans, a Samford University law professor said states and their delegated local governments can restrict uses to protect public health and safety. However, developers could sue under the Fifth Amendment's takings clause, and municipalities might use indirect restrictions like zoning distance requirements instead.

WBHM · Jefferson Co., AL

Doug Jones, a Democratic candidate for Alabama governor, criticized Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville over stock trades in companies tied to artificial intelligence and data centers, and proposed a one-year moratorium on data centers with stricter regulations and transparency measures. Tuberville's campaign did not directly address the criticism but outlined his plan requiring data centers to cover full energy and water costs and be taxed at the highest property tax rate.

WVTM · Alabama

Democratic gubernatorial nominee Doug Jones called for Alabama ethics reforms and alleged that Republican opponent U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville supports data center development due to personal investments in technology companies listed in his financial disclosures. Tuberville's campaign stated a broker manages his investments, while Jones proposed requiring state officials to fully disclose finances and ban stock trading.

Alabama Reflector · Alabama

Headline onlyThe Tuscaloosa News · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

Doug Jones, Alabama's Democratic gubernatorial candidate, called Wednesday for stricter ethics laws and financial disclosure requirements, criticizing U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville's stock holdings in tech companies tied to data centers. Jones said elected officials voting on data center matters should publicly disclose their financial interests beforehand.

AL.com · Jefferson Co., AL

Birmingham's city council passed zoning changes requiring data centers to follow different rules based on size. Hyperscale facilities—larger than 200,000 square feet or using more than 30 megawatts of electricity—must use closed-loop cooling systems, maintain setbacks from residential areas, screen equipment from view, and cannot rely on fossil fuel generators for regular power.

WBHM · Jefferson Co., AL

Headline onlyThe Tuscaloosa News · Tuscaloosa Co., AL · also at Dothan Eagle

Headline onlyThe Tuscaloosa News · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

Brookwood Mayor Joe Barger confirmed during a city council meeting that a proposed development is an AI data center, though no project has been signed yet. The proposal faced opposition from dozens of neighbors citing environmental, power and water concerns, while city officials emphasized potential economic benefits including tax revenue and jobs.

WBRC 6 News · Alabama

Republican gubernatorial nominee Tommy Tuberville proposed giving Alabama communities power to reject data centers and placing them in the state's highest property tax bracket, reversing his earlier support. The plan, detailed in an opinion column, would require data centers to cover full infrastructure costs, though implementation details remain unclear and could require constitutional amendments.

Alabama Reflector · Alabama · also at rocketcitynow.com

Alabama county commissioners passed a resolution opposing legislative authority to regulate data centers, with the commissioners' association stating they don't want the Legislature singling out specific industries for county regulation.

timesdaily.com · Alabama

Brookwood residents expressed environmental and noise concerns Tuesday about a potential data center project by Applied Digital, which owns hundreds of acres in the area. Mayor Joe Barger said no official deal exists and noted a permit application went to Alabama, not the city.

abc3340.com · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

Fort Payne's city council unanimously voted to classify data centers and battery energy storage systems as conditional uses in manufacturing and warehouse zones, requiring Board of Zoning Adjustments review, City Council approval, and a public hearing before any proposal could proceed.

WAFF · Alabama · also at WAFF

Florida's gubernatorial candidates are divided over data center development. Republican Byron Donalds supports the facilities with environmental safeguards, while Democrat David Jolly advocates for a one-year moratorium to study potential impacts on water, health and economics.

Tampa Bay 28 · Florida

Florida Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Jolly said 70-80% of Floridians oppose artificial intelligence data center construction and pledged a one-year moratorium if elected. A July University of North Florida poll found 68% of those surveyed opposed building data centers in their areas.

PolitiFact · Florida

Law.com · Florida

Headline onlySURFER Magazine · Florida

Headline onlyThe Florida Times-Union · Florida

Headline onlysierraclub.org · Florida

Forest Park approved a 90-day moratorium on data center applications to revise zoning laws that currently permit such facilities by right. The city plans to establish definitions, location guidelines, residential buffers, and accountability provisions for data centers.

WSB-TV · Fulton Co., GA

Leesburg city council tabled a proposed draft ordinance governing light industrial uses, including data centers, postponing a decision for 180 days to allow time for research and public meetings. The mayor said the city currently has no data center applications or available parcels, and wants to avoid costly litigation while balancing community concerns about environmental impacts with potential economic investment.

WALB · Georgia

AJC.com · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyAJC.com · Fulton Co., GA

Four families in Mansfield, Georgia sued Meta and county development officials, alleging the Meta Stanton Springs Data Center has contaminated their well water, damaged properties and reduced home values since construction began in 2018. The families claim the data center, which spans two campuses across three counties, has caused silt and sediment contamination affecting their shared aquifer system.

USA Today · Georgia

Pennsylvania's data center sales tax exemption will cost $188.4 million in fiscal year 2026-27, 113% more than the $88.6 million originally projected when the program took effect in 2022. Projections show costs ballooning to $517.2 million by fiscal year 2030-31, a 1,158% increase over six years.

Good Jobs First · Georgia

A 14-year-old Georgia girl was beaten with a golf club during a fight near a bus stop, resulting in head injuries requiring staples. A 36-year-old mother and her two teenage daughters face aggravated assault charges in connection with the incident.

WSFA · Georgia

Democratic Public Service Commission candidate Peter Hubbard says he secured an additional $7.50 in promised monthly bill rate reductions from Georgia Power as part of an OpenAI data center deal, while fellow Democratic candidate Sheila Edwards advocates for studying data center regulations statewide before implementation.

Flagpole · Georgia

Shadowbox Studios filed a lawsuit in August challenging DeKalb County's construction moratorium, which the studio says violates its prior approval to build a data center. The company has spent $30 million on the project and will appeal the zoning board's denial on September 9.

Atlanta News First · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA · also at atlantanewsfirst.com, Atlanta News First

A Louisiana company linked to real estate firm Trammell Crow purchased nearly 1,000 acres at Lewis & Clark Ranch in West Richland for $263.7 million in July, potentially setting the stage for the region's first data center complex, though the city has not yet received a development application.

Tri-City Herald · Caddo Parish, LA

One Nuclear Energy executed a binding letter of intent to develop Project Cayman, a 2.88-GW gas-fired power plant and 700-MW battery storage system alongside a data center complex in Ascension Parish, Louisiana, near the RiverPlex MegaPark industrial site.

POWER Magazine · Louisiana

Meta's $50 billion data center project in Richland Parish has dramatically changed life for police jurors and local officials, who now field constant inquiries about housing, investment opportunities, and infrastructure while managing increased traffic and learning to allocate new tax revenue for parish improvements.

American Press · Richland Parish, LA

Social media rumors claim a data center is coming to Livingston Parish with signed nondisclosure agreements, but Parish President Randy Delatte says he hasn't signed an NDA and no project has been announced. A 691-acre commercial tract in Walker is being marketed for potential data center development, though a broker currently lacks a client.

The Advocate · Richland Parish, LA

Some Louisiana Democrats who voted for a 2024 data center tax break that helped attract Meta, Amazon, and Anthropic say they regret the vote or would have scrutinized it more carefully. The law, which passed nearly unanimously, created an unlimited sales tax rebate for qualifying data centers investing at least $200 million.

thecentersquare.com · E. Baton Rouge Parish, LA

SpaceX confirmed plans for a $100 billion Starship rocket complex in southern Louisiana designed to expand launch capacity and support AI-enabled satellite technology. The company simultaneously restructured its AI data center division leadership following operational difficulties, while preparing for Starship's potential first orbital launch attempt in September.

AD HOC NEWS · Louisiana

washingtonpost.com · Richland Parish, LA

The Southaven Board of Aldermen approved design plans for a roughly 660,000 square-foot data storage facility at 8425 Tulane Road, which the city obtained through a land swap with SpaceXAI affiliate MZX Tech LLC. The agreement included 69 acres along Swinnea Road and $40 million for new city facilities.

Yahoo · DeSoto Co., MS

Headline onlyThe Commercial Appeal · DeSoto Co., MS

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · DeSoto Co., MS

The Southaven Board of Aldermen approved SpaceXAI's plan to convert the city's former 51-acre training facility into a 660,000-square-foot data center, marking the company's fifth such facility in the Memphis and north Mississippi area. Some aldermen expressed concern about the company completing previously promised projects before starting new ones.

actionnews5.com · DeSoto Co., MS · also at wlbt.com, Action News 5, wdam.com

Southaven's Board of Aldermen approved a site plan for a 660,000 square-foot data center by MZX Tech, a SpaceXAI subsidiary, on Tulane Road after approving zoning changes and removing a middle parcel line to create one industrial lot. One alderman voted against the project, citing concerns about the company completing noise-reduction commitments from its existing natural gas turbine operations.

DeSoto Times-Tribune · DeSoto Co., MS

Headline onlyWREG.com · DeSoto Co., MS · also at wreg.com, WREG.com, WJTV

SpaceXAI will build a 660,000 square foot data center in Southaven on Tulane Road, its fifth facility in the Mid-South region. The company acquired the land from the city in exchange for constructing a new police and fire training facility on Swinnea Road.

FOX13 Memphis · DeSoto Co., MS

Daily Memphian · DeSoto Co., MS

Entergy sued the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and Arkansas Times after they published confidential details about the utility's Google data center agreements, allegedly obtained through a public records request. A federal judge denied Entergy's request for a restraining order against the publications.

KATV · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyKARK · Shelby Co., TN · also at FOX16.com

uk.pcmag.com · Shelby Co., TN · also at PCMag, PCMag Australia

A federal judge denied Entergy Arkansas's request to block news organizations from reporting on a data center agreement near West Memphis, saying the utility claimed the disclosure would cause grave harm to its trade secrets. The court will schedule a preliminary injunction hearing after parties confer.

K8 News | Jonesboro, Arkansas · Shelby Co., TN

Entergy Arkansas seeks to remove news articles disclosing terms of its deal with Google to power a West Memphis data center campus. Leaked documents show Google will pay $526 million for a solar farm, with ratepayers funding the remaining two-thirds of the $1.6 billion project through approximately $6 monthly rate increases.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Action News 5

Entergy Arkansas filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block publication of financial details related to Google's West Memphis data center project, alleging confidential information was mistakenly released by the Arkansas Public Service Commission. The dispute centers on whether the material qualifies as legally protected trade secrets under the Defend Trade Secrets Act, with U.S. District Judge Lee Rudofsky hearing arguments but not immediately ruling.

KVOM 101.7 · Shelby Co., TN

SpaceX reshuffled its data-center leadership after engineering concerns and reliability problems emerged at facilities in Tennessee and Mississippi, as the company races to expand AI infrastructure ahead of a September 30 capacity deadline tied to Google's $920 million-monthly compute deal. Some facilities operated for months without backup cooling and power systems, and construction delays and equipment shortages have contributed to service disruptions.

Benzinga · Tennessee

Entergy Arkansas sued to block publication of financial records related to Google's West Memphis data center, including details on the $1.6 billion Arkansas Cypress Solar and Battery project in Jefferson County. The company alleges confidential trade secrets were mistakenly released by the Arkansas Public Service Commission and seeks court restrictions on further disclosure, raising First Amendment concerns.

Deltaplex News · Shelby Co., TN

Documents obtained through a public records request revealed Google will pay Entergy Arkansas $526 million toward construction of a solar and battery facility to power its West Memphis data center. After the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette published details of the agreement, Entergy filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block the newspaper and Arkansas Times from disclosing the information, claiming it contained confidential business details.

Oklahoma Energy Today · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyKARK · Shelby Co., TN · also at FOX16.com, Yahoo

City council members presented data center guideline proposals as a moratorium advanced to second reading. Council member Philip Spinosa offered a five-point framework addressing environmental compliance, infrastructure costs, water security, community protection, and job creation, while Council member Jeff Warren proposed restrictions on water-intensive cooling systems and public disclosure requirements.

Memphis Flyer · Shelby Co., TN

A federal judge denied Entergy Arkansas's request to halt use of documents about a West Memphis data center agreement that were released under the Freedom of Information Act. The utility had sought to prevent disclosure of materials it claimed contained trade secrets, but the court ruled against the temporary restraining order sought against the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Times, and recipients of the FOIA request.

WREG.com · Shelby Co., TN · also at WREG.com

dailymemphian.com · Shelby Co., TN · also at Daily Memphian, Daily Memphian

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

A federal judge is considering whether to block the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and Arkansas Times from publishing details of a data center agreement between Entergy Arkansas and a Google subsidiary, with the judge expressing both concern for Entergy's case and significant First Amendment concerns.

Arkansas Advocate · Shelby Co., TN · also at KTLO

Headline onlylocalmemphis.com · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyThe Commercial Appeal · Shelby Co., TN · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyAction News 5 · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyWBRC

Headline only11Alive.com

Headline onlyrocketcitynow.com

al.com

Headline onlycommercialappeal.com

Headline onlycommercialappeal.com · also at yahoo.com

Headline onlyazcentral.com and The Arizona Republic · also at The Tuscaloosa News

Headline onlyThe Newark Advocate

Headline onlyWVUA 23

Headline onlyWBRC

Somerville homeowners opposing a proposed 50-megawatt bitcoin mining center plan to visit a smaller Russellville facility operated by Synergy South to assess potential impacts. The Russellville site uses no more than 12 megawatts and is located on a busy street near a highway, unlike the proposed Somerville facility on rarely-used Union Road.

WAFF · Alabama

Headline onlycbs42.com · Alabama

Brookwood Mayor Joe Barger addressed resident concerns about proposed data centers along Industrial Parkway at a community meeting, emphasizing the importance of responsible growth and potential tax revenue, while some residents called for more transparency and slower deliberation before a scheduled Sept. 15 city council vote on rezoning.

cbs42.com · Alabama

Pennsylvania Democrat Senator John Fetterman joined President Trump in defending data centers Monday, arguing the U.S. must maintain AI supremacy over China despite American public opposition to the facilities' potential financial and environmental impacts.

mynbc15.com · Mobile Co., AL · also at 13wham.com, WBMA

Democrat Doug Jones and Republican Tommy Tuberville, competing to be Alabama's next governor, unveiled contrasting data center plans Tuesday. Jones proposed a one-year moratorium on data centers to protect communities, while Tuberville argued data centers should pay full taxes and cover energy costs.

1819 News · Alabama

U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, pledged Monday that data centers would pay full taxes and cover all costs of resources if elected governor, reversing his earlier support for industry incentives. He outlined a four-point plan opposing new tax abatements and calling for companies to supply their own power.

AL.com · Alabama

Headline onlycbs42.com · Alabama · also at Yahoo

Applied Digital Corporation, a company with ties to a proposed large-scale development near Brookwood, contributed $25,000 to Republican gubernatorial candidate Tommy Tuberville's campaign in August, according to Alabama campaign finance records. The contribution comes as Tuberville has publicly promoted data-center development in Alabama.

WBMA · Alabama · also at mynbc15.com

President Trump endorsed data center development across America, citing economic benefits, while Vice President Vance attributed opposition concerns to utility costs. A Brookwood town hall tonight will address three suspected local data center projects, with critics citing water impact, noise, and limited job creation concerns.

tuscaloosathread.com · Alabama

Decatur has adopted an ordinance requiring data center developers to obtain special exception permits and undergo public hearings, with projects restricted to industrial zones. Applicants must submit detailed project overviews and comprehensive health and safety studies addressing water consumption, power grid strain, noise pollution, fire protection, and hazardous waste management.

WAFF · Morgan Co., AL

Harpersville adopted a six-month moratorium on data center development in August and held the first of planned informational sessions to study potential economic and infrastructure impacts before developers approach the town.

abc3340.com · Jefferson Co., AL · also at abc3340.com

Alabama Political Reporter · Alabama

Senator Katie Britt called for public accountability in data center development while defending artificial intelligence technology as economically necessary. Britt supports the Ratepayer Protection Pledge signed by roughly 200 entities to prevent shifting AI data center power costs to consumers, though environmental groups have questioned its enforceability.

Alabama Political Reporter · Alabama

Headline onlyMshale · Alabama

Alabama's attorney general said the state is working to ensure data center construction doesn't raise consumer energy and water costs, as several cities have implemented moratoriums. The state's Public Service Commission is reviewing how to approve power contracts between providers and data centers to protect consumers.

Yellowhammer News · Jefferson Co., AL

Foley, Alabama's fastest-growing city, will hold a public hearing Tuesday on a proposed six-month moratorium on data centers, aiming to study potential impacts and develop tailored regulations before any projects materialize in the city. Unlike most Alabama communities that imposed moratoriums after developer proposals, Foley's is preemptive with no pending applications or discussions.

AL.com · Alabama · also at Yahoo, AL.com

Harpersville held its first of six planned information sessions Monday to educate residents about potential data center development, though no company has approached the city. The city council approved a six-month pause on data center projects in August to study economic and infrastructure impacts before considering future regulations.

WVTM · Alabama

The Association of County Commissions of Alabama passed a resolution opposing special zoning power for a single industry, as pushback against data centers grows across the state with communities expressing concerns over electricity costs and land use. County officials note that most Alabama counties lack legal authority to regulate development in unincorporated areas.

WAFF · Alabama · also at WAFF, WAFF, WAFF

Headline onlyMeta Store · Montgomery Co., AL

A proposed data center project in North Port would include seven buildings totaling roughly 896,000 square feet on a 112-acre site near Yorkshire Street and Oleander Drive. The plans, released after a confidentiality agreement expired, show the project would connect to city water infrastructure, treat wastewater on-site, and impact an estimated 4.64 acres of wetlands.

winknews.com · Florida

Republican gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds argues that artificial intelligence data centers are essential to Florida's dominance in the commercial space industry, citing their role in enabling rocket reusability. Donalds faces opposition from Democrat David Jolly, who is calling for a moratorium on the facilities.

Florida Politics · Florida · also at The Miami Times, The Miami Times

Headline onlyThe Hill · Florida · also at The Hill, WKRG

Eatonville's town council will consider increasing daily fines to $500 for the HostDime AI Data Center project if key site commitments aren't met, with the facility now expected to open in the third quarter of 2026. The proposed amendment would also make the final certificate of occupancy contingent on meeting requirements including sound dampening and water resource compliance.

WKMG · Florida

The Florida Department of Transportation is revoking permits for all license plate readers on state roads within 30 days, citing misuse and surveillance concerns. Data centers have become a contentious political issue in Florida, with gubernatorial candidates and state officials taking differing stances on their development.

Spectrum Bay News 9 · Florida

A Georgia fugitive was captured Tuesday after jumping into Weiss Lake while deputies attempted to serve an out-of-state warrant at an Alabama campground. Eric Carl Virta was found hiding in a swampy area over an hour later and taken into custody without incident.

WBMA · Georgia

The federal government has subpoenaed Georgia's Secretary of State's Office for 13 voter files as part of a Department of Homeland Security immigration investigation. A former Covington police officer has been arrested and charged with misusing Flock license plate readers for non-law enforcement purposes.

Georgia Public Broadcasting · Effingham Co., GA

Effingham County's planned OpenAI data center will require 30,000 gallons of water daily for workplace uses, with an estimated 25 million gallons needed for initial cooling system fill. Indirect water consumption at power plants supplying electricity to the facility could reach 11 million to 22 million gallons daily, though experts question whether dry cooling technology will function effectively in the region's hot, humid climate.

thecurrentga.org · Effingham Co., GA

Black residents in metro Atlanta communities including South Fulton and DeKalb County are mobilizing voters against data center expansion, citing concerns about increased utility costs and environmental burdens. The issue has emerged as a bipartisan concern ahead of state elections, with political candidates across party lines facing pressure to address data center development.

Capital B News - Atlanta · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Fulton Co., GA

Sen. Raphael Warnock announced support for a statewide data center moratorium in Georgia after visiting an OpenAI project site in Effingham County, while Gov. Brian Kemp prefers empowering local communities to decide on data center development. The disagreement reflects broader policy debates among Georgia politicians ahead of upcoming elections.

Daily Signal · Georgia

Sen. Raphael Warnock is calling for a statewide moratorium on data center construction and a more transparent application process, citing concerns about corporate impact on residents after visiting a proposed OpenAI data center site in Savannah.

Spectrum News · Chatham Co., GA

White County officials will review county codes and zoning procedures related to data centers within 30 days following resident concerns, though no applications or planned data center projects currently exist in the county, according to Board of Commissioners Chairman Travis Turner.

Now Georgia · Georgia

DDC Solutions' modular rack containment units will cool high-density GPU infrastructure at Duos Edge AI's Columbus, Georgia data center. The sealed containment system provides thermal management and hardware protection at the rack level without requiring facility-wide reconstruction.

Investing News Network · Georgia

Senator Raphael Warnock called Monday for a moratorium on data center construction in Georgia, citing concerns about utility costs, pollution, and lack of transparency. His statement comes amid community opposition to Project Ruby, a $5 billion proposed hyperscale data center in Columbus's Upatoi neighborhood.

Now Georgia · Georgia

Savannah's city council unanimously approved a 155-day moratorium on large-load data centers exceeding 10 megawatts and warehouse conversions over 200,000 square feet, joining approximately 40 other Georgia municipalities. The pause will allow staff to assess the facilities' demands on the city's water and energy resources.

The Georgia Sun · Chatham Co., GA

Shadowbox Studios will petition DeKalb County's Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 9 to reverse a denial of its data center proposal on 155 acres, citing three written county confirmations from 2023-2025 that data centers were permitted on the property and claiming it has spent nearly $37 million in reliance on those assurances.

decaturish.com · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA

Headline onlyFOX 5 Atlanta · Georgia · also at FOX 5 Atlanta, FOX 5 Atlanta

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlyAJC.com · Newton Co., GA

Shadowbox Studios, a movie production facility in southwest DeKalb County, is proposing a data center on part of its property despite the county's ongoing moratorium on such development. The studio's CEO told neighbors at an August 27 meeting that the project would generate $133 million in recurring local tax revenue and create 275 permanent jobs, while community opponents expressed concerns about industrial pollution and air quality in the area.

WABE · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA

Headline onlyLouisiana First News · Louisiana

Headline onlyFox News · Louisiana · also at Yahoo, Fox News

ONE Nuclear signed an agreement to build a 2.88-gigawatt natural gas-fired power plant with battery storage and data center campus in Louisiana between New Orleans and Baton Rouge, located near SpaceX's planned Starbase project. The facility will initially use natural gas generation before transitioning to nuclear power when small modular reactor technology becomes available.

thecentersquare.com · Orleans Parish, LA

Headline onlyShreveport Times · Caddo Parish, LA

Headline onlyShreveport Times · Caddo Parish, LA · also at Houma Today, theadvertiser.com

One Nuclear signed a binding letter of intent to develop a 2.88GW natural gas plant and 700MW battery storage system colocated with a data center in southern Louisiana near RiverPlex MegaPark between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Community outreach meetings are planned from September through December 2026.

Data Center Dynamics · E. Baton Rouge Parish, LA

Caddo Parish commissioners voted 4-6 against advancing a resolution that would have requested the parish zoning commission consider a limited data center moratorium in the area surrounding Shreveport. Commissioner John-Paul Young introduced the measure as a narrower approach after a broader parish-wide moratorium effort failed earlier this month.

The Shreveport-Bossier City Advocate · Caddo Parish, LA

Headline onlyLaw360 · DeSoto Co., MS

The Memphis City Council unanimously voted Tuesday for a data center development moratorium ordinance during its second reading. The vote coincided with 901 Day and drew activists who have advocated for data center regulation, citing environmental justice concerns in affected neighborhoods.

Action News 5 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Action News 5, Action News 5, actionnews5.com

The Memphis City Council moved forward Tuesday on a proposed data center moratorium that would block new building permits and site plans for data centers in the city. Some council members proposed alternative regulatory frameworks instead, while others used procedural tactics to delay the vote on the ordinance's second of three necessary readings.

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN · also at Daily Memphian, Daily Memphian

MLGW leadership indicated during a Memphis City Council committee meeting that additional data center developments may be forthcoming, with two previously approved expansions—one by 5C and another by CTC/Colossus/xAI—expected to be completed by the end of 2026. Two additional projects requesting a combined 350 megawatts are in preliminary stages and unlikely to advance before early 2027, pending TVA approval and infrastructure studies.

Yahoo · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlycommercialappeal.com · Shelby Co., TN

Google will contribute $526 million toward a 600-megawatt solar and battery storage project in Jefferson County, Arkansas, with an additional $190 million designated for transmission upgrades to support its West Memphis data center. The Arkansas Cypress project, estimated to cost $1.602 billion total, is expected to begin operating by the end of 2028.

KVOM 101.7 · Shelby Co., TN · also at Deltaplex News

Two companies plan to build significant data centers in Memphis, according to the city's utilities CEO, though the projects are months away from beginning.

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN

Inadvertently disclosed documents obtained through a public records request show Google will pay approximately one-third of the costs for a 600-megawatt solar facility in Jefferson County, contradicting Entergy Arkansas' assertions that Google will bear full infrastructure expenses for its data centers. Entergy has threatened legal action against multiple parties to prevent further disclosure of the documents.

Arkansas Times · Shelby Co., TN

Entergy Arkansas filed a federal lawsuit Tuesday seeking to block the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and Arkansas Times from publishing details about its agreement with Google regarding data centers in West Memphis, claiming the confidential documents were disclosed in error.

arkansasonline.com · Shelby Co., TN

SpaceX replaced several data-center team leaders with executives from rocket and Starlink operations following civil-engineering and reliability problems at facilities in Tennessee and Mississippi, where some sites operated without backup cooling and power for months.

TradingView · Tennessee · also at Stocktwits, TradingView

Memphis Light, Gas & Water operates 16 data centers ranging from under 1 megawatt to 150 MW and says no residential rates have changed due to data centers. Two expansions are planned by year-end, with two additional facilities requesting 350 MW total expected online after January.

wreg.com · Shelby Co., TN

thenerdstash.com · Tennessee

A data center owned by SpaceX in Mississippi is generating complaints from nearby residents over noise levels measured at 70 decibels and concerns about air and water quality. The facility is part of a cluster of four data centers around Memphis collectively valued at approximately $20 billion, with critics citing increased pollution from gas turbines and heavy water consumption averaging 1 million gallons daily.

WBHM · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyAxios · Tennessee

The EPA is considering eliminating federal requirements that give communities advance notice and opportunity to comment on air pollution permits for data centers, potentially removing a key tool residents have used to oppose projects in their areas.

Word In Black · Shelby Co., TN

Google is investing $526 million in the Cypress Solar facility, a 600-megawatt solar field with battery storage in Jefferson County, Arkansas, to power its West Memphis data center. The facility will begin service in February 2027, with demand gradually increasing to 600 megawatts by October 2029.

Construction Review · Shelby Co., TN

A new data center being developed on Getwell Road in Shelby County is proceeding without tax incentives, unlike most companies that typically seek tax abatements through the local economic development agency.

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN

Google will pay Entergy Arkansas $526 million toward construction of Cypress Solar, a 600-megawatt solar and 350-megawatt battery facility in Jefferson County that will supply power to Google's West Memphis data center. Google will also pay $190 million for required transmission system upgrades.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WSFA, WAFF

Headline onlyPark Hills Daily Journal

The Michigan City Council will consider a proposed moratorium on future data-center development during a Tuesday meeting, while Google continues construction on its data center in the city.

WSBT

President Trump's support for artificial intelligence data center construction is creating political difficulties for Republicans ahead of midterm elections, as polls show over 70% of Americans oppose building data centers near their homes. The issue has generated bipartisan backlash across competitive races, with some Republican candidates distancing themselves from the industry despite the president's advocacy.

WBMA · also at katu.com, National News Desk, WEAR-TV

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez suggested placing a data center at Mar-a-Lago in response to Trump's comments promoting data centers as beneficial for communities. Trump had criticized communities rejecting data centers, while Palm Beach County commissioners recently voted against developing another AI data center near the Mar-a-Lago area.

WBMA · also at mynbc15.com, WBMA

Dothan Eagle

Headline onlycbs4local.com · also at KFOX, KFOX

A $93 million Prichard data center project faces uncertainty after the city council moved to invalidate its building permit and refund $224,000 in application fees, citing improper procedure. The permit's validity under the city's six-month data center moratorium, approved days after the July 30 permit issuance, remains a legal question with significant budget implications.

mynbc15.com · Mobile Co., AL

Doug Jones' gubernatorial campaign emphasizes unity and moving past divisive issues like immigration, schools, and taxes, but critics argue voters deserve specific answers about his policy positions rather than appeals to stop fighting.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

More than a dozen data centers are proposed or under construction across Alabama, driven by growth in generative AI. Proponents cite job creation and tax revenue, while opponents raise concerns about environmental impacts, water and energy consumption, noise pollution, and whether benefits are equitably distributed across communities.

WBHM · Jefferson Co., AL

Data centers are becoming controversial developments in communities due to their large electricity and water consumption and land use, though they produce fewer permanent jobs than traditional manufacturing. The editorial argues that while communities should scrutinize proposed facilities regarding infrastructure costs and environmental impacts, they should also weigh potential economic opportunities and the national importance of computing capacity.

tuscaloosathread.com · Alabama

Headline onlycbs42.com · Alabama · also at Yahoo

A 33-year-old Bessemer man died Friday night in a single-vehicle crash on Birmingport Road in Mulga. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is investigating the cause.

WBRC · Jefferson Co., AL

U.S. Sen. Katie Britt advocates for a balanced approach to data center development, saying communities should assess whether tax revenue and economic benefits offset concerns about power consumption and environmental impacts. Britt emphasizes the need for American dominance in AI while allowing communities to decide what works best for them.

1819 News · Montgomery Co., AL

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said the state aims to balance welcoming data centers with protecting consumers from rising energy and water costs, emphasizing transparency from energy providers and ensuring economic development doesn't burden ratepayers.

1819 News · Alabama

Alabama Reflector · Alabama

Willow Lakes LLC has submitted a rezoning application to Fort Pierce to convert 174 acres in western St. Lucie County near Interstate 95 into a light industrial data center, with the remaining 26 acres planned for commercial retail uses.

WPTV · Florida

Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly released an ad contrasting his proposed data center moratorium with Republican opponent Byron Donalds' support for the facilities, which Jolly links to campaign donations from the industry. University of North Florida polling shows 68% of Florida voters oppose data centers in their area.

Florida Politics · Florida · also at The Miami Times, The Miami Times

North Port commissioners advanced an 18-month pause on data center projects early Tuesday morning after a lengthy public meeting where hundreds opposed a proposed 900,000-square-foot facility, citing concerns about impacts to water, air, and land.

WINK News · Florida

beachgrit.com · Florida

U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody says local governments should decide whether to allow data centers in their communities, a campaign issue that has generated significant controversy. Moody stated that data center companies must make their case to residents and address concerns about costs, environmental impact, and health effects.

Florida Politics · Florida

The owner of a 200-acre Fort Pierce property has abandoned plans for a surf park community and instead seeks rezoning to develop a data center on 174 acres and commercial space on the remaining land. Financing difficulties and electrical transmission lines crossing the property prompted the shift away from the previously planned residential surf community.

NewsRadio WFLA · Florida

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida · also at Treasure Coast News

North Port commissioners will consider Monday an 18-month moratorium on new data centers and large-load facilities, including a retroactive provision that could affect a pending application submitted in July. The city aims to study potential impacts on electricity, water, and infrastructure before determining future regulations.

Spectrum Bay News 9 · Florida · also at Spectrum Noticias

The North Port City Commission is considering a moratorium on data center development after a developer proposed an approximately 896,000-square-foot data center in the Yorkshire area. Some residents have expressed concerns about environmental impacts and the project's scale, while commissioners will vote on the proposed moratorium August 31st.

ABC7 WWSB · Florida

Dougherty County commissioners extended the county's data center moratorium for an additional 180 days, with commissioners debating the specificity of language distinguishing large-scale from small-scale facilities. Residents have requested new ordinances addressing noise, proximity to homes, and water usage.

WALB · Georgia · also at WALB

Savannah City Council unanimously imposed a 155-day moratorium Thursday on large data centers exceeding 10 megawatts and warehouse conversions over 200,000 square feet to assess the facilities' demands on the city's water and energy resources.

thecurrentga.org · Chatham Co., GA

The Black Chronicle · Effingham Co., GA · also at The Center Square, The Center Square

Georgia's data center boom is expected to create legal opportunities across multiple practice areas as the industry faces growing resistance, according to legal experts. Law firms are also seeing increased demand for services related to AI, privacy, and traditional labor matters as capital spending on infrastructure projects continues.

Law.com · Georgia

Savannah's city council unanimously approved a 155-day moratorium on large-load data centers exceeding 10 megawatts and warehouse conversions over 200,000 square feet, joining about 40 other Georgia municipalities. The pause allows officials to assess infrastructure demands on water and energy resources as interest from data center companies increases.

Georgia Public Broadcasting · Chatham Co., GA

A writer argues that data centers should be built on repurposed industrial sites, closed retail properties, and abandoned factories rather than on rural land in Georgia, citing examples like Chicago's Lakeside Technology Center and a former aluminum plant in New York that were successfully converted.

TheCitizen.com · Coweta Co., GA

Columbia County, Georgia's Economic Development Authority approved a $17 billion Google data center project expected to generate $40 million annually in property taxes. County voters will decide in November whether to dedicate the project's revenue to reduce residents' property taxes, which currently comprise roughly 40 percent of the county's general-fund revenue.

townhall.com · Georgia

Augusta leaders have extended a pause on data center development to gather public input on a proposed ordinance that would require 500-foot buffers from residential areas, impose 65-decibel noise limits, mandate closed-loop cooling systems, and ban private wells. Public meetings are scheduled for Monday and Thursday, with online feedback also available.

WRDW · Richmond Co., GA · also at wrdw.com

Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock visited Effingham County to meet with residents concerned about OpenAI's proposed 3.2-gigawatt data center and called for a statewide moratorium on data center construction unless developers implement safeguards addressing utility bills, transparency, and pollution.

AllOnGeorgia · Effingham Co., GA

Sen. Warnock is calling for a Georgia moratorium on data center projects unless companies commit to environmental and economic protections including limits on noise, light, and water usage. Three Catholic families are suing the Georgia Promise Scholarship Program, claiming its rules violate religious freedom. About 200 Cobb County teachers who walked out of their superintendent's July back-to-school speech face potential sanctions.

97.5 Glory FM · Effingham Co., GA

OpenAI finalized a contract with Georgia Power for a 3.2-gigawatt data center in Effingham County that promises typical residential customers at least $15 monthly in rate reductions between 2029-2031. The Georgia Public Service Commission received an extended review period after public and commissioner scrutiny prompted additional customer protections in the agreement.

Columbus Ledger-Enquirer · Effingham Co., GA

Georgia Power has agreed to shield typical customers from data center costs under a new deal with state regulators, including a promise to increase rate offsets to at least $15 monthly by 2029 if data centers close or depart the state. Environmental advocates support the agreement but seek greater contract transparency and changes to the regulatory review process.

Savannah Business Journal · Georgia

Headline onlygovtech.com · Richland Parish, LA

Advanced nuclear energy firm ONE Nuclear has secured a Louisiana site for Project Cayman, a power complex combining a 2.88 GW gas plant, 2.88 gigawatt-hour battery storage system, and co-located data center campus. The project will support industrial and technology development in the region near SpaceX's Starbase expansion and a planned Hyundai steel mill.

Interesting Engineering · Louisiana

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Louisiana

Yellowhammer News · E. Baton Rouge Parish, LA

ONE Nuclear Energy has executed a binding letter of intent to develop Project Cayman, a 2.88 GW natural gas plant with battery storage and a co-located data center campus in Louisiana near RiverPlex MegaPark and SpaceX's infrastructure expansion.

Business Wire · Louisiana · also at Yahoo! Finance Canada

Meta announced plans for a $50 billion data center in northeast Louisiana's Richland Parish in late 2024, dramatically transforming the rural farming community and its local government leaders. The project has increased the parish's population by roughly 8,000 workers daily, doubled 2025 sales tax revenue to over $20 million, and prompted officials to hire engineers and adopt new permitting procedures.

NOLA.com · Richland Parish, LA

Headline onlyKTBS 3 · Louisiana

SpaceXAI has disconnected 11 temporary turbines at its Southaven data center and agreed with Mississippi's environmental agency to remove all 69 turbines by next July, after which a permanent 1.2 GW power plant will provide power. The move follows lawsuits from residents over noise and from the NAACP over environmental concerns.

supertalk.fm · DeSoto Co., MS

Headline onlywreg.com · DeSoto Co., MS

Clarksdale, Mississippi has rezoned 648 acres to potentially attract a data center that could generate millions in tax revenue and create hundreds of jobs, but residents are challenging the project over concerns about water strain, pollution, and environmental impact on a predominantly Black community already experiencing poverty and limited economic growth.

Capital B News · Mississippi · also at Capital B News

Mississippi Entergy customers are avoiding a nearly $5 monthly bill increase this month due to revenue from Amazon's data center operations, the utility announced. Under Entergy's Fair Share Plus program, large data center customers pay full grid connection costs while providing tax revenue, jobs, and community benefits to offset costs for existing customers.

Daily Energy Insider · Mississippi · also at Daily Energy Insider

The Wilson County Data Center Advisory Committee received a first draft zoning ordinance for potential data centers, written by Planning Services Director Christopher Lawless. The committee will review and possibly revise the draft before resubmitting it for county commission consideration.

Main Street Media of Tennessee · Sumner Co., TN

5C Data Centers, a Quebec-based artificial intelligence infrastructure provider, purchased the former Fred's Inc. corporate headquarters building in Memphis for $25 million to develop an artificial intelligence data center on the 1.1 million-square-foot property.

Daily Memphian · Shelby Co., TN · also at Daily Memphian

Residents near Elon Musk's xAI data center campus on the Memphis-Mississippi border report 24/7 noise pollution from roughly 60 to 70 gas turbines that operate continuously, with low-frequency sounds penetrating homes and causing sleep disruption and health concerns. The company plans to expand operations and install permanent turbines, while dozens of similar data center projects using gas generation are planned across the nation.

WPLN News · Shelby Co., TN · also at WKU Public Radio, WEKU, lpm.org

Headline only11Alive.com

President Trump said communities opposing data centers risk becoming "backwards and poor," while Vice President Vance suggested opposition stems from concerns about electricity costs and argued companies should generate their own power rather than drawing from the grid.

WBRC · also at WTVY, WWNY, WSFA

Headline only11Alive.com

Headline onlyrocketcitynow.com

President Trump criticized communities opposing AI data center construction, arguing they would miss economic benefits like lower taxes and jobs. A Fox News poll found 70% of Americans oppose building data centers in their neighborhoods, citing environmental concerns as the primary reason.

Newsradio WFLA Orlando

Headline onlyWRDW

X Global Government Affairs identified a bot farm of approximately 200,000 accounts, with about 200 posting content designed to manipulate debate over American AI and data center development, according to the platform's investigation into suspected Chinese inauthentic influence operations.

Alabama Daily News

President Trump said Monday that communities opposing AI data centers risk economic decline, while a Fox News survey found 70 percent of respondents opposed construction of data centers in their areas, citing environmental and financial concerns including water consumption.

WKRG · also at WHNT.com, WKRG

Headline onlywtsp.com

Headline onlyWHNT.com

Alabama county commissioners unanimously opposed gaining industry-specific authority to regulate data centers, instead calling for comprehensive land use powers. The Association of County Commissions of Alabama cited constitutional and administrative concerns about singling out one industry for regulation.

Alabama Daily News · Alabama · also at Decatur Daily

BirminghamWatch · Jefferson Co., AL

Georgia Power's Public Service Commission approved a contract with OpenAI's Project Camila for 3.1 gigawatts of power, with officials describing it as featuring historic strictness. The binding agreement ensures residential customers save $15 monthly and requires OpenAI to cover grid installation costs, while Georgia Power will manage power delivery to prevent outages in surrounding areas.

WTOC · Georgia · also at WTOC, WTOC

Georgia Power and OpenAI received approval for a 3.2-gigawatt data center campus in Effingham County, with OpenAI funding all necessary infrastructure costs and committing to demand-response flexibility. The project is projected to generate approximately $950 million in annual savings for residential customers beginning in 2029, while OpenAI pledges $80 million in community benefits.

The South Shore Press · Effingham Co., GA

Approximately 100 Effingham County residents attended a Saturday work session to press county commissioners about OpenAI's proposed Project Camellia data center, raising concerns about noise, water, utilities, emergency services and environmental impacts. Commissioners acknowledged transparency issues and discussed potential changes including possible moratoriums on future data centers and conditional-use requirements.

Effingham Herald · Effingham Co., GA

Democratic Senate nominee Roy Cooper is shifting his campaign stance on data centers, now advocating they pay for their own power and build independent energy sources to address rising electricity costs for consumers, a departure from his earlier support for data center growth as North Carolina governor.

Fox News · Mississippi · also at 930 WFMD Free Talk, kotaradio.com

SpaceXAI's Colossus data center complex near Memphis, Tennessee, operates portable gas turbines that produce toxic emissions including formaldehyde and nitrogen oxide while drawing millions of gallons of water daily from local utilities.

WhoWhatWhy · Shelby Co., TN

Alabama's attorney general is urging state utility regulators to strengthen consumer protections during the state's data center expansion, arguing that Alabama Power customers deserve greater public participation in reviewing electricity contracts to ensure data centers pay their fair share of infrastructure costs.

stl.news · Alabama

Alabama's attorney general is proposing electric rate reforms for artificial intelligence data centers amid massive energy demand growth. The state received $117.1 million from a Meta settlement addressing teen social media safety concerns.

Fox Business · Alabama

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida

Gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds said he will respect local government decisions to ban data centers if elected, while pledging to share detailed information about the facilities with Floridians. Multiple Florida counties and cities have already enacted data center bans or moratoriums.

Florida Politics · Florida · also at The Miami Times, The Miami Times

North Port released a new online resource about data centers as the city commission considers a moratorium on their development. The city is reviewing a proposed 896,000-square-foot data center and mixed-use project in the northeastern Yorkshire area, with the commission scheduled to vote on a moratorium ordinance in September.

ABC7 WWSB · Florida

Highlands County is analyzing its zoning regulations to determine how to limit or restrict data center construction following a state law signed in May that allows counties to regulate such projects. County Attorney Sherry Sutphen will present findings in September on potential regulation changes and whether a moratorium is necessary.

Mid Florida Newspapers · Florida

About 70 people attended an Effingham County Commission workshop to air concerns about a proposed $20 billion OpenAI data center in Rincon, with commissioners agreeing to investigate issues including noise pollution, electromagnetic radiation, and battery fire hazards residents raised.

thecurrentga.org · Effingham Co., GA

Sen. Raphael Warnock proposed a statewide data center moratorium while speaking at the site of a planned OpenAI facility in Effingham County, saying exemptions should only apply to projects meeting specific standards on utility rates, pollution and transparency.

The Post-Searchlight · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlyWSAV-TV · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyLowndes Signal · also at Lowndes Signal

Alabama Power filed three data center contracts with regulators this year but redacted key terms including contract length, minimum billing requirements, and pricing, despite claiming such protections exist for ratepayers. The utility's proposed rate schedule specifies no minimum term or bill percentage, contrasting with its public statements about protecting other customers from cost shifts.

Energy and Policy Institute · Alabama

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Nine Jefferson County food establishments failed compliance inspections between Aug. 13 and Aug. 25, with violations including improper food temperatures, mold, pests, and missing safety procedures. Golden Corral in Hoover recorded the lowest score of 71.

WBRC · Alabama

Carrier Global Corp. is considering Alabama, Fort Worth and Virginia for a new $434 million manufacturing plant that would produce data center cooling systems and create nearly 500 jobs. A final site selection is expected in the third quarter of 2026.

Yellowhammer News · Jefferson Co., AL

About 30 Tuscaloosa County residents attended a forum to discuss concerns about Flock surveillance cameras and data centers, with organizers noting privacy vulnerabilities and limited public information about approximately 100 cameras in the county. At least 12 data centers are proposed or under construction in Alabama, with attendees raising concerns about environmental impacts and potential government overreach.

AL.com · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

Former Democratic gubernatorial nominee Doug Jones said expanding Medicaid would be his first act as governor, during an appearance on Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear's podcast. Alabama is among 10 states that have not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act, which would extend eligibility to individuals earning up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level.

Alabama Political Reporter · Alabama

A Joint Interim Study Commission found that Alabama's local court fees vary significantly by county, ranging from zero to $182 added to a $244 statewide filing fee for standard circuit civil cases. The commission recommended creating a complete public inventory of all local court costs and gradually moving toward a more uniform system while preserving funding counties currently depend on.

Alabama Political Reporter · Alabama

Applied Digital Corporation, a Dallas-based data center company tied to a potential Tuscaloosa County project, donated $25,000 to U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville's campaign for governor on Aug. 7. Tuberville has promoted data center development in Alabama for its potential tax revenue and job creation benefits.

AL.com · Tuscaloosa Co., AL

State lawmakers in Marshall County addressed constituent concerns Thursday about data center tax breaks and potential negative impacts. Officials said guardrails are needed while acknowledging data centers' rapid growth and noting that TVA oversight complicates state regulation of the facilities.

1819 News · Alabama

A community forum in Tuscaloosa addressed concerns about Flock license plate cameras and data centers, with residents questioning data usage and camera placement. Organizers plan to present community questions to local leaders, and state lawmakers may consider new Flock camera regulations in the 2027 session.

WBRC · Tuscaloosa Co., AL · also at WBRC

Headline onlyFOX 13 Tampa Bay · Florida

The Black Chronicle · Florida · also at The Center Square, The Apopka Voice, The Apopka Voice

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida

Headline onlyTallahassee Democrat · Leon Co., FL

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Florida

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Orange Co. (FL), FL

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida · also at Treasure Coast News

Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Jolly and running mate Gwen Graham proposed a one-year statewide moratorium on hyperscale AI data center construction during a Panama City visit, citing concerns about strain on water supplies, aquifers, noise pollution, and public health risks.

WJHG · Florida

Headline onlyTreasure Coast News · Florida · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock called Friday for a moratorium on data center construction in Georgia, citing concerns about secrecy surrounding a proposed $20 billion OpenAI facility in Effingham County and lack of federal regulation of the artificial intelligence industry. Warnock's proposal would allow construction to proceed if developers met specific guarantees including no increases to residents' water and electrical bills, prevention of pollution, and bans on nondisclosure agreements.

thecurrentga.org · Effingham Co., GA

Headline only11Alive.com · Georgia · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyWSB-TV · Georgia · also at WSB-TV, WSB-TV

Senator Raphael Warnock visited OpenAI's proposed 3.2-gigawatt data center site in Effingham County, Georgia and called for a statewide moratorium on data center construction. The moratorium would only be lifted for specific projects that meet safeguards regarding utility bills, transparency, and pollution.

U.S. Senate (.gov) · Effingham Co., GA

U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock met with Effingham County residents Friday to discuss concerns about the proposed Camellia Data Center, calling for a moratorium on data center projects unless they guarantee no increases in water or electric bills for residents.

WJCL · Effingham Co., GA

Sen. Raphael Warnock called for a statewide moratorium on new data centers in Georgia after regulators approved OpenAI's 3.2 gigawatt facility in Effingham County, citing concerns about community exclusion from decisions and potential impacts including rate increases and pollution.

CBS News · Effingham Co., GA

U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock is calling for a statewide moratorium on data centers following an OpenAI project announcement in Effingham County that has drawn opposition from local residents. State regulators recently approved a Georgia Power contract to supply 3,200 megawatts of electricity to the facility.

WABE · Effingham Co., GA · also at Georgia Recorder, Griffin Daily News, Chattanooga Times Free Press

Georgia Power's contract with OpenAI for supplying 3,200 megawatts of electricity to a 1,400-acre Effingham County data center was approved by the Public Service Commission, while the final Development of Regional Impact report identifying environmental concerns and mitigation recommendations was released Wednesday.

Statesboro Herald · Effingham Co., GA

Sen. Raphael Warnock called for a moratorium on data centers during a visit to Effingham County, Georgia, stating that OpenAI's project proceeded without community input. Warnock outlined conditions for lifting the moratorium, including no increases to water or electric bills and no pollution from the development.

WTOC · Effingham Co., GA

U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock visited the proposed site of OpenAI's $20 billion Project Camellia in Effingham County and called for a moratorium on data center development until residents have meaningful input and developers guarantee protections against utility rate increases, pollution, and non-transparent dealings. Warnock criticized the lack of public hearings before the project's announcement and said the 1,400-acre campus requiring 3.2 gigawatts of electricity should not proceed without community voice.

Effingham Herald · Effingham Co., GA

Georgia Power's power contract to serve OpenAI's $20 billion Effingham County data center has received Georgia Public Service Commission approval. The agreement includes about 3,200 megawatts of new electricity demand and protections for other customers if the large-load contract ends early; Georgia Power projects the contract will be part of a portfolio generating approximately $950 million in annual savings beginning in 2029.

WJCL · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlyWABE · Georgia

Georgia Power has received regulatory approval for an electricity supply agreement with OpenAI covering a planned project in Effingham County, Georgia, adding approximately 3,200 megawatts of new electricity demand. Under the agreement, OpenAI will cover infrastructure costs for its project and make up to 1,000 megawatts of its demand flexible, while Georgia Power projects approximately $950 million in annual customer savings beginning in 2029.

cnhinews.com · Effingham Co., GA · also at TradingView

Georgia Power's 25-year contract with OpenAI for a data-center campus in Effingham County was approved by the Georgia Public Service Commission in August 2026 and projects approximately $950 million in annual residential savings beginning in 2029. Some PSC commissioners have raised concerns that broader system-wide grid costs may not be fully captured in the contract's confidential terms.

Gadget Review · Effingham Co., GA

Record construction in North America's data center market during the first half of 2026 still failed to reduce capacity constraints, with vacancy falling to 1.4% despite a 24.8% increase in construction to 7,481.1 MW. Over 80% of capacity under construction has been preleased, leaving less than 1,500 MW available—roughly six months of supply—as AI demand outpaces infrastructure delivery.

Data Center Frontier · Fulton Co., GA

Headline onlyThe Business Journals · Georgia

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

Headline onlyWSAV-TV · Chatham Co., GA

Savannah City Council approved a 155-day moratorium on large-scale data centers Thursday, pausing new development within city limits while officials study impacts including noise, water usage and power grid demands. The temporary ban provides time to draft regulatory policy before year's end.

WTOC · Chatham Co., GA

Headline onlyState Affairs · Chatham Co., GA · also at State Affairs

Georgia Power's contract with OpenAI to build a 3.2 gigawatt data center in Effingham County was approved by Public Service Commission staff without a direct commission vote, prompting environmental groups to call for greater transparency and commissioner involvement in future contract decisions.

CleanTechnica · Effingham Co., GA

Louisiana is experiencing economic development including SpaceX's announced $100 billion commercial spaceport in Vermilion Parish, Meta's data center expansion in Richland Parish, and Applied Digital's data center project in Rapides Parish. Two microcap stocks with Louisiana exposure are Catalyst Bancorp, a regional bank, and Expion Energy, a lithium battery manufacturer that recently acquired oil and gas assets in Eastern Louisiana.

TradingView · Richland Parish, LA

Nashville Electric Service has adopted a Ratepayer Protection Pledge to ensure large-load data center projects pay their fair share and don't increase bills for existing customers. Projects exceeding five megawatts undergo joint review by TVA and NES, and the utility will implement a data center-specific rate over the next two years.

News Channel 5 Nashville · Davidson Co., TN

Fisk University faculty released a report outlining academic benefits of a proposed data center on campus, part of the university's $1 billion "Quantum Leap" initiative. The facility would provide students internships and employment opportunities in artificial intelligence, data science and cybersecurity, though the project continues facing opposition from students, alumni and community members.

News Channel 5 Nashville · Davidson Co., TN

Republican gubernatorial nominee Tommy Tuberville received a $25,000 campaign contribution from Applied Digital Corporation, a Dallas-based technology company that owns 1,300 acres in Brookwood and is involved in data center development. Tuberville has been a vocal supporter of data center projects, describing them as a "gold mine" for tax revenue, while his Democratic opponent Doug Jones has called for a one-year moratorium on new data center construction in Alabama.

Tuscaloosa Thread

Rep. Jim Costa introduced H.R. 5227, a bipartisan bill that would require the Secretary of Energy to study how artificial intelligence and data center expansion affects energy supplies, water resources and utility costs, particularly in rural communities.

thebusinessjournal.com

Alabama Political Reporter

Elkhart's city council unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on data centers and battery energy storage facilities within city limits, with members citing a need for additional research. The action follows interest from data center companies, including one proposing a $120 million investment in a former facility.

WSBT

Mayor Carletta Davis outlined a spending increase of 22 percent funded through new fees and taxes, including a proposed gas tax and higher municipal fees. The city council will review the nearly $21.88 million budget proposal, which prioritizes police officer salary increases and a temporary contract with Mobile County Sheriff's Office.

fox10tv.com · Mobile Co., AL

A Jefferson County Circuit Court has scheduled a non-jury trial for March 8, 2027, in a lawsuit challenging a proposed Birmingham data center. The court's scheduling order sets deadlines for expert witness disclosure, discovery completion, and summary judgment motions leading up to trial.

WBMA · Jefferson Co., AL

Foley city leaders are considering a six-month moratorium on data center and similar high-demand facility applications to allow time to review municipal ordinances addressing zoning, environmental protection, noise and water use before any proposals are submitted.

WEAR-TV · Alabama

Foley leaders are considering a six-month moratorium on data center and cryptocurrency-mining facility applications to allow time for the city to review its zoning and environmental ordinances before any proposals are submitted. Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the city wants to ensure adequate protections regarding noise and water use.

mynbc15.com · Mobile Co., AL

ABC of Alabama held the Powering Tomorrow Data Center Summit to address misconceptions about data centers, including claims that they burden ratepayers with power costs. Google's Jackson County expansion covers 100% of its power use and infrastructure costs, while modern data centers use closed-loop cooling systems that recycle water.

1819 News · Alabama

Jerry Carl, the GOP nominee in Alabama's first congressional district race, said data centers could become obsolete within seven to 10 years due to emerging microchip-based data storage technology that he believes will revolutionize the industry.

1819 News · Mobile Co., AL

A Bessemer election official said a poll worker from one precinct sealed a thumb drive containing voting machine data in an official box, delaying county certification until a court order led to its retrieval. Election results reported were accurate despite the confusion, though council incumbent Cleo King narrowly missed winning outright and will enter a runoff.

AL.com · Jefferson Co., AL

West Alabama will celebrate reaching one million books distributed through Dolly Parton's Imagination Library at an October 3 event at the Tuscaloosa Public Library. Over 8,700 children in nine West Alabama counties are enrolled in the program, which has delivered more than 5.4 million books statewide since 2004.

Tuscaloosa Thread · Alabama

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Bessemer City High School graduates from 2027 to 2030 will be eligible for minimum $10,000 scholarships to Miles College, Lawson State Community College, or Stillman College, funded by QTS, a data center operator planning a $14.5 billion facility in the area. The company committed $8 million to the scholarship program and additional workforce development initiatives.

Alabama Daily News · Jefferson Co., AL

An opinion piece argues that data centers benefit Alabama economically and address public concerns about utility costs and water use. The author contends Google's Jackson County expansion covers 100% of its power costs, modern facilities use closed-loop cooling systems, and construction projects create jobs while providing infrastructure improvements to host communities.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

The Alabama Attorney General's Office urged Public Service Commission members to vote publicly on large load contracts for data centers, arguing that a 1996 delegation of approval authority to staff lacks legal authorization and that the subjective standards involved require elected or appointed officials to decide.

Alabama Reflector · Alabama · also at Yahoo, News From The States

VOICES for Alabama's Children is launching an online dashboard Tuesday to provide real-time access to childhood well-being data, replacing its annual research book and allowing county-by-county comparisons across 73 indicators including mental health, education, and economic security.

Alabama Reflector · Alabama

An Alabama woman won a $20,000 judgment against a Church's Chicken location in Midfield after suffering second-degree burns from an excessively hot chicken pot pie purchased in January 2020.

WBRC · Alabama · also at WTVY

Headline onlyWKRG · Mobile Co., AL

Anniston adopted a resolution Aug. 18 establishing a temporary 12-month moratorium on data center permitting, development, and licensing within city limits. The Planning Commission will study related issues and present recommendations to the city council within six months.

WBRC · Alabama

The Trump administration declared a national emergency over the power grid, signing an executive order to prohibit foreign-made power equipment from countries considered national security threats. The action cites growing electricity demands from artificial intelligence and data centers, and concerns that foreign actors could exploit vulnerabilities in already-installed equipment.

mynbc15.com · Miami-Dade Co., FL · also at mynbc15.com

Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Jolly supports an Escambia County data center moratorium and says Republican Byron Donalds is out of step with voters by supporting the facilities. Jolly plans to issue a statewide moratorium on data centers on his first day in office, citing environmental and community concerns.

Florida Politics · Florida

The Palm Beach County Commission unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on large-scale AI data centers, defined as facilities with anticipated monthly peak loads of 50 megawatts or more. The county plans to develop new regulations during the moratorium period, with a final vote scheduled for September 24th.

1290 WJNO · Florida · also at NewsRadio WFLA, WIOD, Real Radio 92.1

Taylor County commissioners are considering a temporary moratorium on data center development while establishing regulations for such facilities, following an Aug. 25 workshop where residents and experts debated potential economic benefits against concerns about water consumption, electricity demand, and quality-of-life impacts. County officials confirmed no data center project is currently proposed for the county.

wtwcfox · Florida

Headline onlyUtility Dive · Florida

Palm Beach County commissioners unanimously approved language for a proposed one-year moratorium on large-scale data centers, with a final vote scheduled for Sept. 24. The ban would allow county staff time to develop standards and requirements for such facilities.

WPEC · Florida · also at Sun Sentinel, cw34.com

Tallahassee's City Commission voted 3-2 Wednesday to reject a proposed ordinance that would explicitly ban artificial intelligence data centers within city limits. City officials stated that existing land development code already prevents AI data centers from locating in Tallahassee without affirmative Commission action.

wtwcfox · Leon Co., FL

Democratic gubernatorial nominee David Jolly campaigned in Pensacola, highlighting an affordability plan that addresses property insurance costs, expanding Medicaid and healthcare access, increasing school funding and teacher pay, and proposing a statewide moratorium on AI data centers.

WEAR-TV · Florida

Headline onlyRTO Insider · Georgia

Georgia Power agreed to shield residential and small business customers from costs if data centers close or relocate, and increased promised rate offsets to $15 monthly by 2029. The utility also committed to releasing summaries of its OpenAI contract and future data center agreements, though critics say more transparency and public oversight are needed.

WABE · Chatham Co., GA

The Savannah City Council unanimously imposed a temporary freeze on large-scale data center developments using 10 or more megawatts of electricity or warehouses exceeding 200,000 square feet. The council plans to revisit the moratorium at its second January meeting to assess impacts on water capacity, neighborhoods, job growth, and long-term economic effects.

WJCL · Chatham Co., GA

Georgia Power's electricity contract with OpenAI for a 1,400-acre Effingham County data center was approved by state regulators, and a development impact report was released. The county board will next review the project's preliminary site plan, with commissioners expected to act on Sept. 14.

Effingham Herald · Effingham Co., GA

The Georgia Public Service Commission approved a contract for Georgia Power to supply approximately 3,200 megawatts of power to OpenAI's Project Camellia data center in Effingham County, which will be built in phases from 2028 to 2032. The project is expected to generate $950 million in annual revenue, allowing Georgia Power to reduce residential customer bills by $180 annually starting in 2029.

WSB-TV · Effingham Co., GA · also at WSB-TV, Yahoo

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

The Georgia Public Service Commission staff approved a contract between Georgia Power and OpenAI for electricity to power a 3.2 gigawatt data center in Effingham County. The agreement includes protections for residential and business ratepayers, preventing them from bearing costs if large-load customers terminate contracts early.

thecurrentga.org · Effingham Co., GA

DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has directed multiple county departments to conduct a comprehensive review of data centers' potential impacts on infrastructure, water systems, public safety, and the environment as part of an extended moratorium on new data center applications through March 2027.

decaturish.com · DeKalb Co. (GA), GA

Headline only11Alive.com · Georgia

Georgia Power received regulatory clearance to supply up to 3,200 megawatts of electricity to OpenAI's data center in Effingham County from 2028 through 2032. The utility projects residential customers could save approximately $180 annually beginning in 2029 from revenue generated by this and other large customers.

CBS News · Effingham Co., GA

The Public Service Commission approved Georgia Power's contract to supply energy for an OpenAI data center in Effingham County. Georgia Power says the project will be funded by OpenAI, include safeguards protecting customers from costs, and lower statewide rates by approximately $200 annually.

WSAV-TV · Effingham Co., GA · also at WSAV-TV

The Georgia Public Service Commission approved a contract between Georgia Power and OpenAI for a massive data center in Effingham County. The utility projects the deal will generate $950 million in annual revenue, resulting in $180 annual savings for residential customers beginning in 2029.

WSB-TV · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlyMarcellus Drilling News · Georgia

Georgia Tech experts addressed community questions about AI data centers at an Aug. 26 session in Effingham County, covering electricity consumption, water usage, cooling systems and community concerns like noise and lighting related to the proposed $20 billion OpenAI campus project.

Effingham Herald · Effingham Co., GA

Georgia Power's agreement with OpenAI to build a massive data center near Savannah has won Public Service Commission approval and is projected to save the average residential customer about $15 monthly starting in 2029, with the utility citing additional revenue from large customers offsetting costs.

95.5 WSB · Chatham Co., GA

Georgia Power has received regulatory approval to build 3.2 gigawatts of new generation capacity to supply OpenAI's planned data center in Effingham County, with OpenAI covering infrastructure costs. Energy delivery is expected to begin between 2028 and 2032.

Data Center Dynamics · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlyWSAV-TV · Chatham Co., GA · also at Yahoo

Headline onlyAJC.com · Georgia

97.5 Glory FM · Georgia

Headline onlySavannah Morning News · Effingham Co., GA

State regulators approved Georgia Power's contract to serve a 3,200-megawatt OpenAI project in Effingham County. The agreement is expected to generate $950 million in annual system savings beginning in 2029, with typical residential customers projected to save about $180 per year.

WTOC · Effingham Co., GA

Headline onlyWSAV-TV · Effingham Co., GA · also at Yahoo, Yahoo, WJBF

The Georgia Chamber of Commerce is launching a messaging campaign to highlight jobs and tax revenue from data centers while countering concerns about their environmental and utility impacts. The effort comes as a University of Pennsylvania survey found 61% of Americans opposed new data center construction in their area.

Statesboro Herald · Georgia

Georgia Public Service Commission staff has cleared Georgia Power's electricity contract for OpenAI's planned data center in Effingham County, determining the agreement shields residential customers and small businesses from related costs. The decision allows the contract to move forward as a key regulatory step for the $20 billion project.

WJCL · Effingham Co., GA

Louisiana regulators voted to keep Meta's job creation and electricity usage figures confidential for its data center project in Richland Parish, rejecting a judge's recommendation for disclosure. The decision drew criticism from Democratic Commissioner Davante Lewis, who argued the secrecy prevents low-income and Black communities from verifying promised economic benefits.

Capital B News · Richland Parish, LA · also at Yahoo, thelensnola.org

While politicians nationwide increasingly oppose data centers, Louisiana Republican Gov. Jeff Landry actively courts them, rejecting a moratorium approach and offering tax breaks and fast-tracked approvals. Political scientists warn that Louisiana officials may reverse course if national backlash reaches the state, with signs of emerging voter unease beginning to appear at town halls and regulatory meetings.

NOLA.com · Richland Parish, LA

A data center developer in Louisiana negotiated a $3.6 billion project using nondisclosure agreements that shielded details from residents, sparking opposition and complaints about lack of transparency. The practice of using NDAs for data center projects is common nationwide, though some states have introduced bills to ban them and nearby parishes have completed similar projects without such restrictions.

NPR · Rapides Parish, LA · also at NPR

Entergy Mississippi customers will save nearly $5 monthly on their bills due to revenue generated by Amazon's data center, which pays its own grid costs and contributes community benefits under Entergy's Fair Share Plus initiative.

Pluang · Mississippi

Entergy Mississippi customers will see nearly $5 eliminated from monthly bills thanks to revenue from Amazon's data center facility. Under the company's Fair Share Plus pledge, data centers pay full grid connection costs plus additional community benefits, with similar projects in Arkansas and Louisiana expected to begin generating customer benefits in early 2027.

TradingView · Mississippi · also at PR Newswire, Bossier Press-Tribune, STLtoday.com

Entergy reports that revenue from Amazon's hyperscale facility in Mississippi has offset grid costs and helped eliminate a nearly $5 monthly residential bill increase under the utility's Fair Share Plus program, which requires large data center customers to pay their own interconnection and usage costs while providing additional community benefits.

Stock Titan · Mississippi

The Mississippi Public Service Commission approved an Entergy Mississippi rate plan that prevents a $4.87 monthly customer increase this summer by utilizing revenues from data centers like Amazon's. The utility projects over $2 billion in customer savings over two decades and filed for an additional rate reduction effective October.

Entergy · Mississippi

Amazon Web Services challenged Madison County's valuation of its Canton data centers, seeking assessments of $69 million per building instead of the county assessor's $292 million valuation. If Amazon succeeds, the county could lose $5 million to $6 million in annual tax revenue from the facilities.

tippahnews.com · Madison Co. (MS), MS

An $11.3 billion industrial campus announced for Bradley County, Tennessee includes an 850-acre development with a biomass and natural gas power plant capable of generating up to 1,500 megawatts. Though the project mentions potential data center development, no data center company has committed to building on the site, though discussions are ongoing.

The Center Square · Tennessee

A Tennessee woman was arrested following a high-speed chase on Highway 280 that ended in a crash after she struck a utility pole. Patricia Grant faces charges including drug trafficking, attempting to elude police, and possession of drug paraphernalia after fentanyl was found in her vehicle.

WBRC · Tennessee

The Tennessee Valley Authority approved a 10 percent rate increase for existing data centers over three years, effective October 1, to prevent its 10 million residential customers from subsidizing data center power demands. The utility says the increase ensures data centers cover their own service costs through power charges and upfront commitment fees based on expected usage.

AL.com · Tennessee · also at Yahoo, AL.com

The Tennessee Valley Authority approved a separate rate class for data centers, effective Oct. 1, with costs phased in over three years. The change aims to prevent data center costs from being passed to residential and other customers as the industry's electricity demand grows across the region.

256 Today · Shelby Co., TN

The Tennessee Valley Authority approved a 10 percent electricity rate increase for data centers, effective October 1 and phased in over three fiscal years. The new rate structure applies to both existing and new facilities across TVA's seven-state service territory, including North Alabama.

Alabama Political Reporter · Shelby Co., TN

Headline onlyThe Tennessean · Davidson Co., TN

Nashville Electric Service signed the Ratepayer Protection Pledge to shield existing customers from costs tied to grid expansion and generation projects serving large-scale industrial and technology developments. The utility also announced advanced planning frameworks for data centers, a new monthly public reporting system tracking operational metrics, and appointed attorney Robert "Jaz" Boon to its board.

The Tennessee Tribune · Davidson Co., TN

Project River, a proposed $11.3 billion industrial energy campus on 850 acres in Bradley County, would generate up to 1,500 MW of electricity from natural gas and biomass to potentially power a data center or other heavy industry, creating up to 2,600 jobs. Some residents have expressed concerns about lack of transparency and environmental impacts, while developers say the self-powered facility would differ from traditional data centers by not drawing from the electrical grid.

Local 3 News

Headline onlyWAFF · also at WSFA, WAFF

The Elkhart City Council will hold a special meeting Thursday for a final vote on a proposed data center moratorium that would pause such projects until the moratorium ends or December 31, 2027. The meeting will include a presentation, public comment and council discussion.

WSBT

timesdaily.com

Headline onlyWSFA · also at WAFF, WTVY

Headline onlyWKRG · also at WDHN, WHNT.com, WKRG

Headline onlyWBRC

Headline onlyFOX 5 Atlanta

Data centers have emerged as a major campaign issue for both Democratic and Republican candidates ahead of 2026 midterm elections, with national polling showing about three in five Americans oppose local data centers across party lines.

WBRC · also at localnewslive.com, WAFF, WSFA

Bessemer's complete municipal election results are delayed a week after a thumb drive containing data from one precinct was locked in the wrong box, requiring a court order to retrieve it, the Jefferson County Registrar said. Results from 11 of 12 precincts have been posted, with several races remaining competitive.

WBMA · Jefferson Co., AL

Headline onlyGovTech · Alabama

Headline onlyYellowhammer News · Alabama

The Tennessee Valley Authority approved a new rate structure separating data centers from traditional manufacturing customers, aiming to prevent households and businesses from subsidizing costs associated with growing artificial intelligence facility electricity demand across North Alabama and its service territory.

Yellowhammer News · Alabama

Alabama's Senate Bill 270, effective October 1st, requires hyperscale data centers using 150 megawatts or more to pay all infrastructure costs and demonstrate positive benefits to other customers. Alabama Power is urging the Public Service Commission to narrowly interpret the law's enforcement, while the state attorney general and watchdog groups seek broader public-interest protections.

Tuscaloosa Thread · Tuscaloosa Co., AL