Connecticut Lawmaker Proposes Statewide Moratorium on Data Center Development
Connecticut State Sen. Jeff Gordon is proposing a statewide moratorium on new data center development to allow for more research into potential negative impacts on energy ratepayers, the environment, and public infrastructure. The plan aims to create clear protections for ratepayers and ensure transparent regulatory review processes. Gordon's initiative addresses growing concerns about data centers' resource consumption and their impact on local communities.
Connecticut State Senator Jeff Gordon has introduced a comprehensive plan calling for a statewide moratorium on new data center development in Connecticut. Citing concerns about energy and water consumption, environmental impacts, local planning challenges, and public safety, Senator Gordon emphasized the need for further research before allowing more data centers to establish in the state. He noted that the landscape surrounding data centers has changed significantly since Connecticut passed legislation to attract them in 2021.
Gordon's proposal outlines several key areas for protection, including insulating energy ratepayers from increased costs due to data center demands, potentially through separate rate structures or on-site energy supplies for data centers. It also advocates for creating clear, transparent, and inclusive regulatory review processes to evaluate environmental impacts on water, air, land, and noise, ensuring public notification and participation. He expressed particular concern for small towns in his district with wells, fearing potential contamination and damage to farmland.
Additional components of the Senator's plan include addressing the need for adequate infrastructure for new transmission lines and roads, as well as unique public safety challenges related to data center security and fire management. He also suggests establishing financial guarantees to shield state and municipal governments, along with ratepayers, from unforeseen costs. Gordon is confident the issue can be addressed in a bipartisan manner in the upcoming legislative session, noting that constituents are increasingly expressing concerns about affordability and environmental impact.