Nonprofit organization report looks at Colorado Springs data center regulations
A Romer Institute report commissioned by Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade examines how the city regulates data centers. It recommends creating a specific zoning classification, improving transparency and public involvement in approvals, and using the city-owned utility system to address electricity and water impacts.
A report commissioned by Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade examines the city’s existing framework for data center development and compares it with approaches used by other cities. The report notes that Colorado Springs owns its electric, water, natural gas and wastewater utilities, giving local officials significant control over utility rules and rates.
The report says the city’s four largest data centers use about 177,000 gallons of water daily and recommends several regulatory improvements. These include establishing a dedicated data center zoning classification, making the approval process more transparent, and adding public involvement because current applications do not automatically require a public hearing. The report was completed at no cost to the city.