Cary approves 18-month moratorium on data centers amid growth concerns

The Cary Town Council in North Carolina unanimously approved an 18-month moratorium on data center development, effective immediately and lasting until February 2028. This pause halts development approvals, rezoning applications, and building permits for data centers within the town while officials research and develop specific regulations for these facilities. The decision was prompted by increasing interest in data center development across North Carolina and growing concerns over their water and electricity consumption.

Residents expressed mixed reactions during the public discussion. Some voiced strong opposition, citing environmental concerns and questioning the economic benefits for the community. Others argued that Cary has a history of embracing growth and that a blanket moratorium sends the wrong message to technology companies.

Councilwoman Lori Bush emphasized that the moratorium is not intended to stop growth but to ensure thoughtful and disciplined planning for this new technology sector, protecting community resources. However, Councilwoman Carissa Johnson raised concerns about the broad nature of the moratorium, suggesting it might contradict Cary's image as a "smart city" that embraces technology. During the approval process, an initial exemption for facilities using less than 25 megawatts was amended to a stricter 1-megawatt limit. The council aims to establish clear standards for future data center development within the 18-month period.