Dozens of N.J. organizations ask Gov. Sherrill to ban new data centers
A coalition of over 60 New Jersey environmental, labor, and community groups has formally asked Governor Mikie Sherrill to enact a moratorium on new data center approvals and construction in the state. They cite concerns about increased demand for dirty energy, strained water resources, and rising electricity rates. The groups plan to deliver a petition with thousands of signatures supporting the moratorium.
A coalition comprising more than 60 New Jersey environmental, labor, and community organizations has formally requested Governor Mikie Sherrill to implement a moratorium on the approval and construction of new data centers consuming 20 megawatts or more of power. The groups, spearheaded by figures such as Matt Smith, New Jersey Director for Food & Water Watch, argue that the unchecked expansion of the data center industry poses significant environmental and social threats, including increased demand for "dirty energy," strained water resources, and rising electricity rates for residents and businesses. They contend that New Jerseyans bear these costs while large technology companies profit. The Governor's office has not yet responded to the request.
This organized plea is part of a broader wave of opposition to data center development across the region. In Pennsylvania, residents and lawmakers, including Democratic Sen. Katie Muth of Montgomery County, are planning to introduce legislation for a statewide ban or to empower local municipalities to enact their own moratoriums. The article notes the surge in hyperscale data center proposals and construction nationally, fueled by demand from generative AI, with several projects underway or proposed in the Philadelphia area, including an Amazon campus in Falls Township, Bucks County, and a large AI data center in Vineland, Cumberland County, powering Microsoft's AI tools.
While proponents highlight economic benefits like tax revenue, job creation, and the repurposing of industrial sites, opponents raise concerns about pollution, noise, extensive power and water consumption, and the impact on utility bills. They also express apprehension about the stability of the AI boom. Although some municipalities have issued data center moratoriums, no state governments have yet done so, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. The New Jersey coalition stated they plan to submit a petition with thousands of resident signatures supporting the moratorium.