Indiana Counties Increase Restrictions On Data Centers
At least 50 Indiana counties have enacted restrictions on data center development, including 33 moratoriums, 14 regulatory ordinances and four communities where data centers are prohibited. The restrictions reflect concerns about electricity and water consumption, environmental impacts, infrastructure strain and limited long-term employment benefits.
At least 50 Indiana counties have adopted restrictions on data center development as demand for large facilities grows, partly because of artificial intelligence. According to Indiana University’s Environmental Resilience Institute, the total includes 33 counties with moratoriums, 14 with regulatory ordinances and four communities that prohibit data centers; Marshall County has made its ban permanent.
The restrictions reflect growing opposition over electricity and water use, impacts on land and local infrastructure, noise and air pollution. Indiana has attracted major technology companies through tax incentives, but the article does not identify a specific company project or development.