Aurora set to embark on data center regulation with a measure aimed at reducing water consumption
Aurora City Council is set to consider its first data center regulation, a ban on evaporative cooling systems, to reduce water consumption. This follows the rejection of a proposed six-month moratorium on new data centers. The city plans to introduce further regulations on distance, location, noise, and generator screening by year-end.
The Aurora City Council is initiating its first set of regulations for data centers, starting with a proposed ban on evaporative cooling systems to significantly reduce water consumption. This move comes after a proposal for a six-month moratorium on new data centers, championed by Councilwoman Amy Wiles, was narrowly rejected by a 6-5 vote last month. The city is now focusing on a regulatory approach to address community concerns regarding environmental impact and neighborhood integration.
Councilwoman Wiles confirmed that the evaporative cooling ban, slated for consideration on Monday, is merely the initial step. Future regulations will tackle crucial aspects such as distance restrictions from homes and schools, designated zoning areas for data centers, and measures to control noise and screen backup generators. The comprehensive set of rules is anticipated to be finalized and implemented by the end of the year, aiming to strike a balance between facilitating business growth and safeguarding community interests.
While Aurora is opting for regulation, other Colorado jurisdictions have enacted stricter measures; Lochbuie imposed a five-year ban, Denver has a one-year moratorium, and Jefferson and Larimer counties also have temporary development pauses. Concurrently, Weld County commissioners recently approved a 41-acre data center project for Global AI near Windsor and Greeley, despite opposition concerns about water usage and noise, noting the project met existing county regulations. Aurora currently hosts nine data centers and has five more in development stages.