San Jose debates data center moratorium while new review standards take shape
The City of San Jose is developing new review standards for data center projects to address concerns about environmental impacts and strain on local water and power infrastructure. Residents are simultaneously calling for an immediate moratorium on new developments. The proposed standards are expected to be presented to the City Council in December.
The City of San Jose is in the process of formulating new local review standards for data center developments. These standards are being drafted in response to growing concerns from residents and officials that a proliferation of new data center projects could overtax the city's existing water and power infrastructure, in addition to causing other environmental issues.
Residents are actively advocating for the city to implement an immediate moratorium on new data center construction, urging San Jose to follow the example of other jurisdictions that have paused development. The proposed review standards are anticipated to cover a range of issues including air quality, noise pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and requirements for public outreach.
City staff are currently gathering feedback from the community on these forthcoming regulations. The comprehensive package of new standards is scheduled to be presented to the San Jose City Council for consideration and a potential vote in December.