North Carolina Emerges as Key Battleground in Expansion of Large-Scale Data Centers
December 27, 2025
The rapid expansion of data center infrastructure is placing North Carolina at the forefront of a national debate, balancing the economic promise of digital infrastructure against growing concerns over land use, energy consumption, and community impact. As demand for cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and hyperscale services surges, states like North Carolina, with available land and competitive power costs, have become prime targets for development.
This debate has crystallized around specific projects and locations, such as the Salem Business Park on Old Lexington Road in Winston-Salem. Public records confirm that telecommunications and infrastructure company Segra operates a data center facility at this address, highlighting the state's active role in hosting critical digital assets. The visibility of such facilities in suburban and semi-rural areas has intensified local scrutiny.
The core of the controversy lies in the scale of proposed developments. Projects often encompass hundreds of acres, require dedicated electrical substations, and consume power on par with small cities. Proponents argue these investments bring high-tech jobs, significant local tax revenue, and position the region for future growth. Opponents, however, raise alarms about the strain on regional power grids, the environmental footprint, and the transformation of community character.
The implications for the industry are significant. North Carolina's regulatory and community response could set a precedent for other markets in the Southeast and nationwide. Prolonged disputes or stringent new regulations may increase development timelines and costs, potentially redirecting future investments. How the state manages this growth will serve as a critical case study in integrating essential, yet resource-intensive, digital infrastructure into modern communities.
Source: journalnow
