On data centers, Hochul says she would prefer something 'that had more long-term job generation'
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has stated her preference for data centers that generate more long-term jobs and provide their own energy, citing concerns over ratepayer impact. Her comments come amidst strong opposition to a proposed Stream Data Centers project in Alabama, Genesee County, and a legislative push for a statewide three-year moratorium on new data center construction.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her desire for data center developments that prioritize long-term job creation and self-sufficiency in energy supply. Speaking in Buffalo, Governor Hochul highlighted concerns about the impact on ratepayers due to rising energy costs, stating that data centers should provide their own power sources.
Her remarks coincide with a proposed $19.4 billion, 2.2 million square foot data center project by Stream Data Centers in Alabama, Genesee County, which is encountering significant local opposition due to environmental and energy concerns. Despite the project's estimated 125 jobs, Governor Hochul reiterated her wish for more substantial job generation given the scale of such investments.
Simultaneously, state lawmakers are advocating for a temporary three-year moratorium on new data center construction across New York. Supporters of the moratorium argue it would allow the state to thoroughly study the potential environmental and community impacts of these facilities before further development.