Data Center Site Selection Now Involves Grid Costs, Water Use, and Community Benefits

Data center development in North America now requires addressing grid costs, water use, and community benefits, shifting from a focus solely on power. States like California, Texas, New York, Massachusetts, and New Jersey are tightening oversight, requiring developers to cover grid upgrade costs and improve water transparency.

Why it matters. Developers must now consider multiple regulatory factors, impacting project feasibility and costs.