Seattle considers ban on new data centers after reported expansion interest

Seattle city councilmembers are poised to introduce a one-year moratorium on new data center developments in the city, responding to public alarm and interest from several companies in expanding their data center footprint. Councilmembers Debora Juarez, Eddie Lin, and Council President Joy Hollingsworth announced the plan, which will be accompanied by a resolution calling for comprehensive impact studies on the city's infrastructure, water usage, utility rates, land use, jobs, and public health. Seattle City Light reported that three companies, identified as Prologis, Equinix, and Sabey, had explored potential data center development within its service area, though none have submitted formal service requests. A fourth company, Pacland, also filed early-stage permits for subdividing land at a Seattle site on behalf of an unidentified stakeholder. Mayor Katie Wilson previously acknowledged public concerns about data centers, stating her team is working with City Light and the council to identify long-term policy approaches. The city emphasizes that no new data centers have been authorized or permitted. Industry data from CBRE indicates Seattle's existing data center capacity is relatively limited, with roughly 30 small data centers totaling 155.8 megawatts by early 2025. Experts note Washington remains a constrained market due to power grid capacity. Following potential votes on the moratorium and resolution, councilmembers are expected to consider an ordinance to establish separate electricity rates for new large users like data centers in 2027 and 2028.