Charlestown becomes second R.I. town to ban data centers

The Charlestown Town Council in Rhode Island has unanimously voted 5-0 to prohibit Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and data centers within town limits. This decision marks Charlestown as the second town in the state, following Smithfield, to enact such a ban. The ordinance was passed as a preventative measure, as there are currently no plans for data center construction in Charlestown.

Councilor Bonnie Van Slyke, who sponsored the agenda item, highlighted environmental concerns, citing Charlestown's reliance on well water and septic systems. She noted that BESS could lead to fires and leaking fluids, potentially contaminating groundwater, while data centers consume significant land, electricity, and water. The town's Planning Commission supported the council's decision, deeming the ordinance consistent with Charlestown's comprehensive plan and zoning principles.

During the public hearing, no residents spoke, though some concerns were raised by Councilor Stephen Stokes regarding the ordinance's wording on BESS, particularly how it might affect individual residential battery systems for solar panels. Town Solicitor Peter Ruggiero and Building/Zoning Official Joseph Warner were tasked with clarifying the language to distinguish between commercial and individual use. Planning Commission Chair Ruth Platner added that the town's existing prohibition on commercial electricity production would further protect individual energy storage users.

Neighboring communities are also considering similar actions; the Hopkinton Town Council directed its Planning Board and Department to study and recommend an ordinance to ban data centers.