The nation’s data center debate has reached Southern Nevada
Henderson, Nevada, is exploring a 180-day moratorium on data center permit approvals to study potential code changes addressing concerns about air quality, heat generation, siting, water, and energy use. This decision follows past approvals for projects by Trammell Crow Co. and Switch, amidst growing statewide debate over data center impacts. Other Nevada localities are also considering or enacting restrictions, while the Southern Nevada Water Authority already has a ban on evaporative cooling for new data centers in the region.
Henderson, Nevada, is considering a 180-day pause on data center permit approvals as city staff investigate potential code changes to address concerns about air quality, heat generation, siting, and decommissioning. Henderson Mayor Michelle Romero proposed the moratorium after tech companies engaged with city officials, aiming for more thoughtful development. This decision comes despite the city having previously approved a conditional use permit for Trammell Crow Co. to build a 300-acre data center campus last year, and recent approval for Switch to build another facility by the Clark County Planning Commission.
The move reflects a broader skepticism towards AI data centers across Nevada and the US, which are seen to offer tax revenue but raise questions about substantial water and energy consumption. NV Energy reports requests for 39 proposed data center projects totaling 16,530 megawatts, far exceeding the state's current peak load capacity of 8,241 megawatts. Environmental groups, such as the Sierra Club's Toiyabe chapter led by Olivia Tanager, are actively pushing for increased oversight and moratoriums until the Nevada Legislature reconvenes in 2027.
Other Nevada localities are also taking action: Nye County has approved a temporary moratorium, while Boulder City residents are opposing a proposed data center. The Southern Nevada Water Authority has already enacted an evaporative cooling ban for data centers proposed after 2023 to protect the Colorado River and Lake Mead. The Nevada Data Center Alliance, represented by Tray Abney, argues that politicians are overreacting and overlooking the economic benefits and job creation potential of data centers, advocating against a "one-size-fits-all" regulatory approach.
Governor Joe Lombardo supports data center projects with responsible environmental plans, setting the stage for ongoing debate between business interests and environmentalists. This includes discussions on state-level rules and potential