U.S. States Face Land Seizures for Data Center Projects Amid Eminent Domain Concerns
In several U.S. states, the expansion of data centers is leading to the use of eminent domain to acquire land for necessary infrastructure projects. In Georgia, residents are being compelled to sell their properties for a Georgia Power transmission project aimed at supporting data centers. The utility company has stated that eminent domain is a last resort, used only when negotiations fail. Similar issues are arising in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, where proposed transmission lines are facing opposition from landowners. These projects are part of a broader effort to meet the growing demand for electricity driven by data centers, which are crucial for supporting artificial intelligence and other digital services.