Palm Beach County commissioners approve moratorium on data centers
Palm Beach County commissioners unanimously approved a one-year moratorium on large-scale data centers. This pause will allow county staff to develop permanent regulations to address impacts on water, power, noise, and infrastructure. The moratorium defines large-scale data centers as those using at least 50 megawatts of power and includes measures to prevent project splitting to bypass rules.
The Palm Beach County commissioners have unanimously enacted a one-year moratorium on data centers, specifically targeting facilities that consume at least 50 megawatts of power. The vote, which was 6-0, grants county staff the necessary time to formulate comprehensive rules and regulations. These new guidelines will address the environmental and infrastructural impacts of data centers, including concerns related to water usage, power consumption, noise pollution, and general infrastructure strain.
Commissioners also refined the definition of a large-scale data center last month to prevent developers from circumventing the 50-megawatt threshold by subdividing a single project across multiple properties. Projects falling below this power consumption limit will require certification from a professional engineer to confirm their qualification.
During the public hearing, several residents voiced their support for the moratorium, with some advocating for even stronger measures. The moratorium is slated to remain in effect until September 24, 2027.