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Edgecombe County residents and environmental advocates are opposing a proposed $19 billion data center project by Energy Storage Solutions. The project involves a 900-megawatt facility in Kingsboro, raising concerns about water quality and infrastructure.

Activists, including Katey Zimmerman from Sound Rivers, warn that the facility's cooling needs may strain the Tar River and pose risks related to wastewater containing heavy metals or PFAS. Community members have voiced concerns at a board of commissioners meeting regarding transparency and increasing utility costs. The group plans to continue their advocacy until a formal proposal is released.