Marshall County Enacts Permanent Ban On Data Centers

Marshall County, Indiana, has become the first county in the state to enact a permanent ban on data center development. The Marshall County Commissioners approved the landmark measure at their meeting on April 20, transitioning from a previous yearlong moratorium on large-scale industrial projects. The decision was driven by concerns over the potential long-term impacts of energy-intensive computing facilities on local electricity and water supplies. Commissioners also emphasized the importance of preserving agricultural stability in the area, aiming to prevent the conversion of fertile farmland into industrial sites. This move was strongly supported by residents who advocated for limiting expansion to maintain the county's rural character. In addition to the data center prohibition, the commissioners introduced stringent regulations for other energy developments, including new setback requirements for battery energy storage systems and proposed limits on the size of solar energy projects. While rejecting large technology hubs, county leaders expressed openness to smaller-footprint energy projects, such as natural gas facilities and modular nuclear reactors, favoring established technologies. Despite potential disagreements with state officials who advocate for broader energy infrastructure expansion, local leaders affirmed that community priorities would remain central to future development decisions.