New York Lawmakers Impose One-Year Ban on New Data Centers

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In a groundbreaking move, the New York State legislature has passed a one-year moratorium on the construction of new large data centers. If signed into law by Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul, this bill will mark the first statewide ban of its kind in the United States. The legislation, championed by lawmakers concerned about the environmental and energy implications of data centers, aims to give policymakers a crucial window to assess the impact of these facilities.

The moratorium will provide time for the state's environmental agency to compile a comprehensive report on the effects of large data centers on electricity consumption, water usage, land utilization, and pollution. The report will specifically examine the resources required by data centers, including electricity, water, and land. It will also assess the pollution generated by these facilities.

Furthermore, companies planning to build large data centers – defined as those with a peak demand of at least 20 megawatts – will be required to hold public hearings and obtain necessary permits. By taking a proactive approach, New York State aims to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. The one-year moratorium will allow for a thorough evaluation of the data center industry's impact on the state's resources and environment.

Lawmakers behind the bill are optimistic that the moratorium will lead to more informed decision-making and the development of sustainable solutions for the data center industry. If Governor Hochul signs the bill into law, it will go into effect immediately, setting a new precedent for data center regulation in the United States.