Residents near a large data center under construction in Fayetteville, Georgia, have raised concerns after the facility consumed nearly 30 million gallons of water without payment, according to local officials. The issue came to light following complaints from neighbors in an upscale subdivision who noticed abnormally low water pressure last year.

An investigation by the county utility revealed that the 615-acre data center site was utilizing two industrial-scale water connections. The developer behind the project, Quality Technology Services, which is backed by investment firm Blackstone, accumulated nearly $150,000 in unpaid water bills. The volume of water used was equivalent to filling approximately 44 Olympic-sized swimming pools and significantly exceeded the maximum usage limits established during the planning phase for the facility.

This situation has drawn heightened scrutiny amid Georgia’s ongoing drought conditions, with the state experiencing severe water shortages alongside continued wildfire outbreaks. Local officials and residents have expressed frustration over the strain on water resources at a time when conservation efforts are critical.

Quality Technology Services has not publicly commented on the water usage and billing dispute. Meanwhile, county authorities are reviewing the incident as part of broader efforts to manage water supply amid environmental challenges in the region.