A new data center could be coming to south Alabama
Edged Energy recently presented its plans for the site, which would include creating 20 high-paying jobs.
Mason Reed 
A proposed $93 million data center project in Prichard has ignited a local debate over economic potential versus environmental concerns. New York-based IT company Edged Energy is looking to establish a facility on a site reportedly near Telegraph Road and the Africatown community, marking a new chapter for the south Alabama city.
Project Details and Community Reaction
During an April meeting, Edged Energy outlined plans to create 20 new jobs with annual salaries exceeding $70,000. While some city leaders, including Mayor Carletta Davis, view the facility as a catalyst for growth, others remain skeptical. An online petition opposing the project has already gathered nearly 400 signatures.
In a recent social media post, Mayor Davis emphasized that the project is a smaller-scale facility and promised transparency. “Not all data centers are created equal, and no decisions will be made without transparency, careful evaluation, and open communication with the people of Prichard,” Davis stated.
Technology and Infrastructure Concerns
A significant point of discussion is the impact on Prichard’s infrastructure. Edged Energy maintains that its facilities utilize a waterless cooling system called ThermalWorks, which the company claims mitigates environmental strain. Edged U.S. Manager Garland Christopher told WKRG that their facilities are designed to be minimally damaging to the environment.
This comes as Prichard continues to grapple with a long-standing crisis within its water and sewer utility. With a high poverty rate and a history of infrastructure neglect, residents are wary of new industrial projects. The proximity to the historic Africatown community—which is currently seeing a push for redevelopment—further complicates the conversation, as neighbors aim to prevent further industrial encroachment.
A National Trend
Prichard's situation mirrors a growing national trend of opposition to data centers. According to a recent survey, seven in 10 Americans express concern over such developments. For its part, Alabama Power has noted that large-load customers like data centers are responsible for the full cost of the energy they consume, aiming to prevent utility cost burdens from falling on local residents. The city of Prichard expects to schedule additional community meetings soon as the review process continues.
