Conservation group launches campaign against data centers
Vermont Conservation Voters has launched a campaign called “Don’t Data Center Vermont” to oppose large-scale data center development, citing concerns over increased electricity costs and environmental impacts. The campaign follows a governor's veto that left Vermont unprotected and comes amidst similar debates in New Hampshire, where a state senator plans to propose a data center moratorium and new regulations.
Vermont Conservation Voters has initiated its “Don’t Data Center Vermont” campaign to halt large-scale data center development across the state. Executive Director Dan Fingas warned that such facilities could escalate electricity costs, increase water consumption, and contribute to noise and air pollution, referencing a governor's veto in June that he claims left Vermont vulnerable.
This campaign unfolds as New England grapples with the high electricity demands of data centers, particularly those supporting AI. In neighboring New Hampshire, State Senator Tom Cormen plans to introduce legislation for a 24-month moratorium on data center development and a bill requiring facilities consuming over 30 megawatts to bear their operational costs. Republican Governor Kelly Ayotte has also expressed openness to a moratorium.
The debate in New Hampshire is noted as significant for Vermont policymakers, who must weigh the potential economic benefits of data centers against their strain on the electric grid. The article briefly references Loudoun County, Virginia, as an example of significant data center growth and its impact on the commercial tax base, offering context to the ongoing discussions in Vermont and New Hampshire.