Data Centers: Helping Communities Prepare for What Comes Next
August 18, 2026
As interest in data center development grows across North Carolina, local governments are considering what these projects could mean for their communities. Data centers can bring significant investment, tax revenue and infrastructure improvements, but they may also create new demands on land, power, water and public services.
Because data centers vary widely in size, purpose and resource needs, communities should evaluate each proposal carefully. Early planning can help local leaders identify appropriate locations, understand infrastructure capacity and consider workforce, economic and community impacts.
To support informed conversations and local decision making, Centralina EDD has developed and compiled resources that provide local guidance and perspectives from neighboring regions:
Centralina Data Centers Brief provides an overview of data center types, potential impacts and key questions for local leaders.
Perspectives from Neighboring Regions: The Defining Data Centers: A Reference Guide provides an example of how another North Carolina region is approaching planning, zoning, infrastructure, utilities, incentives and project readiness.
Together, these resources can help local governments prepare for data center development and make informed decisions that reflect local priorities.
