St. Lawrence County Democratic Candidates Urge Moratorium on Data Centers
Democratic candidates for the St. Lawrence County Legislature are expressing strong opposition to proposed data centers in Massena, citing concerns about their massive electricity consumption, rising utility bills, and potential environmental impacts. They are advocating for a one-year moratorium on data center development to allow for further research and responsible economic planning. The candidates also praised county legislators for passing a resolution affirming local control over data center siting.
Democratic candidates for the St. Lawrence County Legislature are urging caution regarding proposed data center developments in the region, particularly one at the former Alcoa East site in Massena. This proposed facility alone would encompass three large structures, totaling over 1.4 million square feet, with the smallest being twice the size of the Potsdam Walmart.
The candidates, including Adam Jarrett, Ginger Storey-Welch, Paula Sturge, Amber Spinner, Patrick Brady, and Setcher Krywanczyk, highlight that data centers contribute to rising electricity bills. They cite the NY Independent System Operator (NYISO), which manages New York's grid, on the "explosive growth of AI-driven energy demand." They claim the Massena project alone could consume nearly 4% of New York State's total electricity in 2024, with several proposed projects potentially reaching 25% of the state's total use. They also questioned the job creation claims of existing operations, noting NYDIG's Bitcoin facility promised 150 jobs but currently employs around 60.
Concerns extend to environmental impacts on waterways, fishing tourism, and noise levels, as well as potential effects on the Akwesasne community located downwind and downstream. The candidates commended County Legislators for passing a Resolution Affirming Local Control Over Data Center Siting and for encouraging municipalities to enact moratoriums for further research. They also criticized Legislators Lightfoot, Reagen, and Sheridan for supporting data centers without sufficient answers. To avoid premature approval, they expressed support for a proposed one-year state-level moratorium on data centers.