2026.09.08 EAB Data Center Subcommittee

The Town of Apex Environmental Advisory Board's Data Center Subcommittee convened on September 8, 2026, to discuss the environmental and energy impacts of data centers, particularly focusing on sustainability, grid reliability, and public health concerns. Presentations by experts from the University of North Carolina highlighted the challenges data centers pose to the electric grid, including the need for on-site power generation such as diesel or natural gas turbines and battery storage to ensure reliability. The discussion emphasized the environmental consequences of these backup power sources, including emissions of NOx, PM2.5, and greenhouse gases, and their associated health risks such as asthma and premature deaths. Modeling of a proposed but withdrawn data center project in Apex showed potential exceedances of EPA air quality standards due to emissions from multiple on-site generators. The meeting also covered regulatory challenges, tariff structures, and the potential for local zoning conditions to mitigate impacts. No direct procurement or contract awards were discussed, but the meeting underscored the importance of careful permit review and environmental impact assessments for future data center developments in the town.