Linden, New Jersey, proposes ordinance to prohibit AI data centers
Linden, New Jersey, officials are moving to introduce an ordinance that would prohibit AI data centers throughout the city. The proposed ban is based on concerns regarding energy and water consumption, pollution, noise, and greenhouse gas emissions. Mayor Derek Armstead stated that this type of development is not suitable for Linden.
Linden, New Jersey, is moving to prohibit AI data centers across the entire city, with Mayor Derek Armstead and the City Council announcing a proposed ordinance to be introduced. The decision to bar these facilities in all zoning districts is driven by significant concerns over their potential environmental, infrastructural, and quality-of-life impacts. Officials specifically cited issues such as high electricity and water consumption, noise pollution, and increased greenhouse gas emissions as reasons why such development is "not right for our city."
The city's concerns are underscored by national projections from the U.S. Department of Energy, which show data centers' electricity use is expected to rise from 4.4% of U.S. total in 2023 to between 6.7% and 12% by 2028. While acknowledging these figures don't predict local impacts, Linden officials emphasized they highlight the broader demands of the industry's growth. The ordinance aims to proactively address these challenges before any specific projects arise in Linden.