Missoula County releases data center study, considers next steps
A Missoula County study found that data centers can significantly affect water resources, electricity demand, noise, air quality, land use and the environment. County officials are considering new zoning regulations after adopting an interim pause on new or expanded data centers, while state law may limit the county’s authority.
Missoula County released a study examining the potential impacts of data centers, including substantial electricity and water consumption, noise, backup-generator emissions, thermal effects, electronic waste and impacts on wildlife. The study concluded that an interim zoning measure pausing new or expanded facilities was appropriate, but county officials said an outright permanent ban is unlikely under current Montana law.
The study recommends that the county begin drafting regulations addressing issues such as noise, setbacks and renewable energy requirements, while determining which matters fall under state jurisdiction. Officials also plan to engage the Montana Legislature and Public Service Commission as they assess the county’s authority under the state’s Right to Compute Act and existing land-use laws.