Kent County drafts data center regulations as Harrington leaders gather information
Kent County leaders are drafting regulations for data center development to address community concerns regarding electricity, noise, and zoning. Concurrently, leaders in Harrington are evaluating a potential data center project, with residents expressing concerns about its impact on electricity, water usage, and noise pollution.
Kent County leaders in Delaware are developing new regulations for potential data center developments in response to growing demand for artificial intelligence and cloud computing. The proposed ordinance would establish specific rules regarding where data centers can be built, noise levels, and how developers must address significant electricity demands without straining the local grid. Kent County Commissioner Jody Sweeney stated that officials studied ordinances from other communities, including Lancaster and Loudoun Counties, to create a proposal that addresses community concerns. Developers would be required to certify their ability to meet power needs, and facilities would be restricted to industrial zones with noise standards.
Simultaneously, leaders in Harrington, a city within Kent County, are evaluating a specific potential data center project. Mayor Frank Tolson noted that community members have raised concerns about electricity and water usage, as well as noise pollution. City officials are gathering information and plan to visit an existing data center in Virginia to better understand its operations and impact on surrounding communities and residents. Both county and city officials plan to involve the public throughout the process, with the Kent County ordinance heading for public review before a final vote.