Data centers: The pros, the cons and the North Country
North Country communities in New York are exploring how to manage data center development, prompting the Tug Hill Commission to host a webinar on their impacts and local control options. The discussion includes concerns over energy and water use, noise, and zoning, alongside potential economic benefits. A statewide data center moratorium bill has passed the New York State Legislature and awaits the Governor's signature.
North Country communities in New York are actively engaging with questions surrounding data center development, particularly concerning their substantial energy and water demands, as well as their economic implications. To address these inquiries, the Tug Hill Commission is hosting a free webinar featuring Matthew Johnson from the Commission and Jim Damicis of Camoin Associates.
Johnson noted that communities in the Tug Hill region are seeking guidance on whether data centers are beneficial, detrimental, and if local governments possess control over their development. Damicis explained that the global demand for data centers is rapidly increasing, further accelerated by artificial intelligence, necessitating larger facilities. While acknowledging legitimate concerns like energy consumption, water usage (especially in drought-prone areas), proximity to neighborhoods, and noise, Damicis also highlighted potential benefits such as significant tax base investments, construction jobs, and permanent technical positions, citing Northern Virginia's data center boom as an example with both pros and cons.
The webinar aims to equip New York communities with planning tools, including the ability to enact moratoriums on data center permits, amend zoning laws, designate specific zones for data centers, and implement design standards for setbacks, building height, noise, and environmental impacts. Johnson emphasized the importance of public hearings in the review process, enhancing citizen involvement in regulatory decisions. He also mentioned the need for coordination with first responders and the potential for requiring decommissioning bonds.
Significantly, the New York State Legislature has passed a one-year moratorium on data centers, which is currently awaiting Gov. Kathy Hochul's signature to become law. Damicis stressed that such moratoriums are effective only if accompanied by comprehensive planning to address concerns like electrical capacity and water resources.