EPA considering change on rule surrounding data center impact
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is considering a rule change that could lessen public participation requirements for "minor air polluters," including data centers. This has raised concerns among residents and environmental groups in East Tennessee, particularly given a recent data center moratorium enacted in Knox County, where facilities consume significant water and power.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is reviewing a proposed rule change that could significantly alter public participation requirements for "minor air polluters," a category that includes data centers. The modification would allow state and local agencies to determine their own public engagement protocols for such projects, potentially reducing opportunities for community input.
This proposed change has elicited worry from residents like Amber Bright, who lives in Von Maur, Tennessee. She expressed concerns about the potential impact on her family and community. The debate comes as bipartisan opposition to data centers is evident, with Knox County recently enacting a moratorium on their construction due to issues like high water and power consumption, as well as noise.
In a statement, the EPA indicated the rule change aims to "reduce administrative burden and responsibly speed up permitting supporting American economic development and energy dominance." However, environmental groups like the Sierra Club have warned that some data centers exploit "minor source" permits to build extensive diesel generator fleets, raising further environmental concerns. Bright has submitted a comment against the proposal, urging Republican leaders to re-examine the issue.