The "Data Center Siting Act" proposed in South Carolina aims to create a regulatory framework for the siting and operation of data centers in the state. The bill introduces new sections to Title 58 of the South Carolina Code, defining key terms and establishing a certification process through the Public Service Commission. This process includes a detailed application procedure, public hearing protocols, and evaluation criteria based on the data center's tier classification, which ranges from Tier 1 (1-10 megawatts) to Tier 3 (over 50 megawatts). The act emphasizes compliance with operational and water efficiency standards, infrastructure assessments, and environmental impact evaluations, while also promoting public participation by allowing stakeholders to intervene in the certification process.

Additionally, the bill outlines specific responsibilities for data centers regarding infrastructure assessments, decommissioning plans, and adherence to noise and environmental standards. Local governments maintain zoning authority but cannot impose stricter requirements than those established by the bill. The Public Service Commission is tasked with overseeing utility rates and agreements, ensuring fair cost allocation and protection for existing ratepayers. The act also includes provisions for noise reduction, light pollution mitigation, and vibration impact management, while allowing for voluntary agreements between data center operators and neighboring property owners. Enforcement responsibilities are assigned to the commission, which will issue notices of non-compliance and require corrective action plans, with a focus on technical assistance for the first two years following enactment.

Statutes affected:
02/10/2026: 58-44-10, 58-44-20, 58-44-30, 58-44-40, 58-44-50, 58-44-60, 58-44-70, 58-44-80, 58-44-90, 58-44-100, 58-44-110, 58-44-120, 58-44-130, 58-44-140, 58-44-150, 58-44-160, 58-44-170, 58-44-180, 58-44-190
Latest Version: 58-44-10, 58-44-20, 58-44-30, 58-44-40, 58-44-50, 58-44-60, 58-44-70, 58-44-80, 58-44-90, 58-44-100, 58-44-110, 58-44-120, 58-44-130, 58-44-140, 58-44-150, 58-44-160, 58-44-170, 58-44-180, 58-44-190