Gilbert looks to balance data center growth with water, neighborhood protections
Gilbert is considering new data center regulations focused on water use and protections for nearby neighborhoods. Proposed rules would restrict open-loop evaporative cooling while attempting to preserve the economic benefits of data center development.
The Town of Gilbert is developing regulations to address concerns about the effects of data centers on water resources and neighboring communities. Town officials are seeking predictable standards for developers and residents, including limits on water-intensive cooling systems and a proposed ban on open-loop evaporative cooling for primary data centers.
Residents have raised concerns about whether the economic benefits of data centers, including construction activity, tax revenue and permanent jobs, justify their resource demands. Gilbert economic development officials and industry representatives are working with the town as it considers rules intended to protect residents while allowing technology and related businesses to adapt.