Ohio EPA still reviewing proposed permitting process for data center water discharge
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is reviewing a proposed general permitting process for data centers' water discharge, having received over 7,000 public comments since October. Community advocates, environmental groups, and politicians, including Senator Bernie Marino and Amy Acton, are expressing concerns about potential environmental impacts on Ohio's water bodies. The EPA states that standards will remain strict, but no timeline for a final decision has been set.
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently reviewing a proposed general permitting process for data centers that discharge water into Ohio's rivers, streams, and lakes. Since its introduction in October, the agency has received more than 7,000 public comments on the proposal.
Community advocate Amy Swank, who has closely monitored data center development, expressed concerns about potential chemical runoff from data center discharge altering the makeup of natural water bodies. Environmental groups also share worries about the impact on rural water systems, likening the discharge volume to that of a small city.
Prominent politicians, including Republican Senator Bernie Marino and Democratic candidate for governor Amy Acton, have both publicly commented on social media, opposing the discharge of water into Ohio's natural water systems. Currently, data centers must apply for individual discharge permits, but the proposed process would establish a single set of standards for all facilities.
Despite the concerns, an Ohio EPA spokesman stated that the agency does not permit discharges that harm aquatic life, recreation, or human health, and that all permits include strict limits and monitoring requirements. However, there is no set timeline for a final decision on the permitting process as the EPA continues to review the extensive public feedback.