Jasper County Council approves 1-year moratorium on data centers

JASPER COUNTY, S.C. (WTOC) - Jasper County Council unanimously approved a temporary one-year moratorium Monday night on new proposals to build data centers and cryptocurrency mining operations in unincorporated parts of the county.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Jasper County considers 1-year pause on data centers to study environmental, infrastructure impacts

The vote followed a public hearing where residents raised concerns regarding noise, traffic, high power usage and potential environmental impacts tied to large-scale operations.

“I believe that this time will allow you as our county leaders to see the impact that data center construction and operations will have on our neighboring counties in which they have already been approved,” one speaker said during public comment.

County leaders said the 12-month pause will give local officials adequate time to establish clear operational standards, update property zoning regulations and proactively address potential community impacts before any facilities are built.

This is a developing story. Check back with WTOC for updates.