Major US city moves to rewrite data center rules after 80 facilities already built
Austin, Texas, city officials have approved a resolution to establish new regulations for data centers, covering aspects like water usage and noise levels. The resolution also includes a temporary moratorium on new data center construction until these official rules are implemented. This initiative aims to ensure resource efficiency and address environmental concerns.
Austin, Texas, city officials have voted in favor of a resolution to establish new operating rules for data centers, citing the city's status as a data center hub with 80 existing facilities. The resolution empowers the city to implement requirements concerning water usage, noise levels, and potentially other resource-efficiency standards.
Mayor Kirk Watson emphasized a thoughtful approach to ensure robust protections and prevent loopholes. Councilman Mike Siegel expressed strong opposition to large data centers, arguing they are driven by corporate profiteering, replace workers with AI, and are incompatible with the natural environment and quality of life.
The approved resolution also includes a temporary moratorium on new data center construction until the official rules are finalized and implemented. Additionally, it mandates that the city council be notified if a proposed data center project would consume more than 20 megawatts of electricity. City staff had previously recommended against offering incentives for new data centers to locate in Austin.