Dealing with Data Centers: How States Are Addressing the Resource Needs of Power Users

Data centers are the backbone of the digital economy, enabling everything from cloud services to artificial intelligence. The South now hosts 42 percent of the nation's facilities, positioning the region at the forefront of technological growth. This expansion brings significant economic promise—yet it also intensifies pressure on essential state resources, particularly energy and water. Legislators across the region are evaluating how to balance this growth with responsible resource management. From tracking consumption and improving efficiency to designing thoughtful regulatory frameworks, states are exploring tools to ensure long-term sustainability without hindering innovation or competitiveness. This Policy Masterclass equips state leaders with a clear understanding of how data centers operate, where the industry is headed, and the policy levers available to guide smart development. Participants will hear from industry, government, and utility experts and gain practical insights to help shape forward-looking strategies that protect state resources while supporting continued economic opportunity.