EPA proposal would make it harder for public to comment on data center plans
The Environmental Protection Agency has proposed eliminating a federal requirement for states to notify the public and seek comment before issuing air pollution permits, which would impact data centers. Critics argue this move reduces transparency and makes it harder for communities to voice concerns about proposed projects before construction begins. The EPA, however, states the plan aims to reduce "unnecessary and burdensome red tape."
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has put forth a proposal that would remove a federal mandate requiring states to inform the public and solicit feedback before granting air pollution permits for industrial facilities, including new AI data centers. While states could still opt to provide public comment opportunities, the federal requirement would no longer be a condition for permit issuance. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated the initiative aims to streamline regulations, bolster American energy, and promote cooperative federalism with states, with a final rule expected next year.
The proposal has drawn criticism, with former EPA deputy director Mike Koerber expressing concern that it would undermine transparency, potentially leaving citizens unaware of proposed data center developments and emissions in their localities. Critics argue that states with lax public comment requirements could accelerate permitting for data centers and other facilities without community input.
The move comes amidst increasing public opposition to the rapid expansion of large tech companies building server farms for AI and cloud computing. Former President Donald Trump, however, has consistently supported data centers, emphasizing their importance for U.S. leadership in AI and suggesting that communities without them will fall behind. Trump has also advocated for tech companies to generate their own power to mitigate consumer utility costs.