As drought conditions continue impacting parts of Georgia, concerns are growing over how expanding data centers could affect the state’s water supply.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers are facilities that store and process large amounts of digital information and support services like cloud computing, artificial intelligence and internet operations. The facilities often require significant electricity and water to keep servers cool and operating efficiently.

The renewed conversation comes as Georgia remains under drought response measures in several areas. State officials have encouraged residents to conserve water as conditions remain dry.

Chat Duboise, a Lowndes County resident and business owner, said he does not see major benefits from data centers for the average American.

Read more at WTVM9.