Bill > H4583

This bill establishes the South Carolina Data Center Responsibility Act, which creates comprehensive regulations for data centers operating in the state. The legislation defines a data center as a facility over 5,000 square feet housing computer systems and servers, and mandates strict requirements for energy, water usage, environmental responsibility, and employment. Specifically, data centers must be completely energy independent, generating 100% of their power on-site without connecting to public power grids, and using backup generators sparingly. The bill prohibits data centers from receiving any state or local taxpayer-funded incentives or subsidies, and requires them to use closed-loop water cooling systems that result in zero water withdrawal and zero wastewater discharge. Data centers must also maintain strict environmental liability insurance of at least $50 million and employ one full-time on-site employee for every 1,000 square feet of facility space. Companies must submit annual reports detailing their energy production, water usage, environmental monitoring, and employment compliance. Violations can result in administrative fines of $1,000 per infraction, and repeated violations may lead to permit suspension or facility shutdown. The bill aims to ensure that data centers operate responsibly, sustainably, and without burdening taxpayers, with enforcement authority primarily vested in the Department of Environmental Sciences and the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Business and Industry

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=4583&session=126&summary=B