Data center ordinance advertised for adoption in East Rockhill

The East Rockhill Board of Supervisors in Pennsylvania has voted to advertise a new ordinance designed to regulate data centers within the township. The proposed regulations define data centers and establish rules for building structures, accessory uses, and equipment. Key provisions include restricting data center construction to industrial districts near the Pennridge Airport, requiring a minimum 50-acre lot size, and setting a 45-foot building height limit. Township solicitor Will Oetinger stated that the ordinance serves as a preemptive measure, as East Rockhill has not yet received any data center applications. This move comes amidst a national proliferation of AI data centers, which have generated significant public resistance in other areas due to concerns over noise, air pollution, groundwater depletion, and rising electricity costs. Residents, including Mark Ezzo, voiced concerns during the meeting about the high water and electricity consumption of data centers. Oetinger clarified that any future data center proposal would necessitate a water impact study and a commitment to indemnify or re-drill affected wells. Supervisor Jim Nietupski echoed worries about electricity usage, noting the immense power demands of mega data centers. Despite these concerns, there was unanimous agreement among the board that the ordinance should be enacted to prevent unregulated data center development and allow for future amendments. The ordinance will undergo a 60-day advertisement period, followed by a public hearing and a final vote. The board's next meeting is scheduled for May 26.