Charlotte council considers pause on building new data centers

The Charlotte City Council is set to vote on June 8 on a proposed 150-day moratorium on new data center development, aiming to prevent the approval of new plans and the acceptance of applications. This move comes amid growing concerns from residents and council members regarding the environmental, noise, and energy impacts of these facilities. Council members JD Mazuera Arias and Dimple Ajmera have voiced strong support for the pause, highlighting worries about children's health and families' ability to live peacefully. Deputy City Manager Alyson Craig noted that while data centers have been in Charlotte for decades, the rise of AI is significantly increasing demand. She mentioned that three data centers were recently approved by the council, and American Tower Corporation is currently proposing one in East Charlotte, with all four facilities located within 500 feet of residential areas. Residents, including Dana Alhasan of PSL Charlotte, packed a recent city council meeting to oppose further development, citing concerns about energy consumption driving up utility prices. Craig acknowledged that data center electricity demand, currently less than 1% of statewide peak, is projected to reach 10% by 2030. Other North Carolina communities like Durham and Apex have already halted data center construction this year. American Tower Corporation has committed to addressing community questions through careful design and ongoing engagement. A public hearing on the moratorium is scheduled for May 26.