Push to ban data centers continues

The Windward Planning Commission in Hawaii County has deferred action until October on Bill 170, a proposed measure intended to ban artificial intelligence data centers within the county. The bill, introduced by Hamakua Councilwoman Heather Kimball, aims to amend the county's zoning code to differentiate between large, industrial-scale AI data centers and smaller, traditional data processing facilities, which are currently permissible in industrial-commercial mixed-use zones. Proponents of the bill seek to prevent developers from exploiting existing zoning loopholes to establish hyper-scale data centers.

Planning Director Jeff Darrow supports the distinction between data center types but cautioned against an outright ban, suggesting it could inadvertently preclude appropriately scaled facilities. Darrow recommended accommodating standalone data centers in general industrial districts with a 10,000-square-foot size limitation, requiring a use permit and site-specific review for larger projects. He also warned that a county-level ban could push developers to seek state approval, potentially leading to data centers in agricultural districts. Public testimony, largely in favor of the measure, highlighted concerns about data centers' high water and electricity consumption, potential noise pollution, rising utility bills for residents, and the limited long-term job creation. Testifiers like Cristina Holt and Michelle Stefanik advocated for stronger language, with Stefanik proposing a 10-year county-wide prohibition on all dedicated data centers, citing Hawaii's limited island resources. Kimball emphasized the urgency, noting clear indications from entities intending to build data centers in every state, including Hawaii.