San Francisco, Oakland Pass 45-Day Moratoriums on New Data Centers
San Francisco and Oakland approved separate 45-day moratoriums on new data centers and expansions, allowing officials to study environmental, water, electricity and infrastructure impacts. The San Francisco pause affects NOVVA's planned expansion, while Oakland officials acted after protests and community concerns about water use and transparency.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors unanimously approved an immediate 45-day moratorium on new data centers and expansions of existing facilities. The pause gives the Planning Department time to assess effects on water use, energy demand, air quality and land use, and could be extended for up to 22 months while officials consider permanent restrictions. It affects NOVVA's planned expansion at 400 Paul Avenue in Bayview, while a proposed Amazon-related facility and other projects are also facing community opposition.
Oakland City Council unanimously approved a separate 45-day pause sponsored by Councilmember Carroll Fife. Protesters and residents cited water consumption, grid and infrastructure impacts, and limited disclosure by developers, including Behring Companies' proposed data center and artificial intelligence research conversion near 20th and Franklin streets. Mayor Barbara Lee said the pause would give residents a role in shaping future policy, while Dr. Elizabeth Dougherty raised concerns about increased demand on Oakland's Mokelumne River water supply and upstream ecosystems.