In policy shift, Republicans say they’ll pursue a moratorium on AI data centers in NH
New Hampshire Republicans are proposing a statewide moratorium on AI data centers, citing public opposition and concerns over electricity, water, noise, and infrastructure impacts. This decision, announced by Senate President Sharon Carson and supported by Gov. Kelly Ayotte, represents a policy reversal from earlier legislative actions. The proposed legislation aims to protect New Hampshire taxpayers and communities from costly demands associated with data center development.
New Hampshire's Republican majority, led by Senate President Sharon Carson, has announced a significant policy shift to pursue a statewide moratorium on AI data centers. This decision comes after two new data center proposals emerged in the capital region, specifically in Bow and East Concord, and follows growing public opposition across the state, including a withdrawn plan in Nottingham. Governor Kelly Ayotte had previously expressed support for such a moratorium due to public concerns.
Senate President Carson emphasized that the legislation aims to protect New Hampshire taxpayers from the financial demands of data center development and ensure communities are not burdened. She highlighted concerns about data centers' substantial demands on electricity and water, along with potential noise and environmental impacts and infrastructure requirements. A recent UNH Survey Center poll indicated strong bipartisan opposition, with 67% of residents opposing local data center construction.
The move represents a reversal for Republicans, who earlier this year diluted a Democratic bill (SB 439) that would have imposed design and noise requirements and codified towns' regulatory abilities. State Senator Debra Altschiller, the bill's proponent, criticized the Republican shift as politically motivated ahead of an election. New Hampshire's next legislative session is scheduled for January 2027, when the proposed moratorium legislation would be explored.