Champaign County takes first step towards a one-year data center moratorium

Champaign County officials have taken a significant step towards enacting a one-year moratorium on new large-scale data center development. The Champaign County Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) voted to pass the moratorium after hearing from numerous residents and experts about the potential impacts of these facilities. The proposal for a yearlong ban on new data centers exceeding 10,000 square feet of processing area stems from concerns about their high electricity and water usage, and their potential effects on local landscapes, noise levels, wildlife habitats, and property values. Andrew Rehn, Director of Climate Policy at Prairie Rivers Network, highlighted the immense energy demands, citing two data centers near Joliet projected to use 1,800 megawatts each, equivalent to Chicago's energy consumption. Residents like Sarah Nixon expressed worries about noise and habitat destruction, while John Marlin advocated for more research into the facilities' implications, particularly regarding water usage and the Mahomet Aquifer. Conversely, several union leaders submitted letters opposing the moratorium, arguing it could jeopardize thousands of high-quality jobs, millions in tax revenue, and Illinois's competitiveness in the AI-driven economy. Jordan Mueller of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 601 was among those who expressed these economic concerns. The moratorium now proceeds to the Champaign County Environment and Land Use Committee for further review before it goes to the full Champaign County Board for a final vote.