A look at what’s fueling the data center backlash across Connecticut. Tension is fueling intense debate.
Connecticut towns are moving to block or delay data center development amid concerns about electricity use, water consumption, pollution, noise and neighborhood impacts. East Lyme enacted an indefinite ban, while other municipalities have adopted moratoriums or considered new restrictions; proposed projects in Cromwell, Colchester, Bristol and Beacon Falls have also drawn significant opposition.
Municipalities across Connecticut are taking preemptive action against data centers even where no formal development application exists. East Lyme adopted an indefinite ban, while New Haven and Morris enacted temporary prohibitions. State Senate Majority Leader Bob Duff said he plans to introduce a statewide moratorium, and Minority Leader Stephen Harding said he supports a pause and reconsideration of the state's data center tax incentive. Officials and residents cite uncertainty over electricity demand, water use, pollution and community impacts.
Several proposed or previously discussed projects have fueled the backlash. Global Common's planned 300-megawatt facility in Cromwell has faced a petition with more than 1,500 signatures, while proposals in Colchester, Bristol and Beacon Falls have prompted resident concerns despite limited or nonexistent formal applications. Developers and local officials argue that some projects are smaller, can provide tax revenue and may use dedicated power or lower-impact designs. A planned facility near Waterford's Millstone Nuclear Power Station was ultimately abandoned after years of delays and local opposition.