San Jose mayor meets with neighbors complaining about data center noise
Residents in South San Jose are complaining about constant noise and bright lights emanating from nearby data centers. Mayor Matt Mahan met with the affected neighbors to hear their concerns, as the city is now considering implementing tougher regulations and stronger standards for data centers, including potential requirements for recycled water use.
Residents in South San Jose, including Denise and Jay, are facing continuous issues with low, constant hums and bright lights from several data centers located along Great Oaks Boulevard. The noise, which can intensify with rising temperatures, and the lights are affecting their quality of life, leading them to seek assistance from the city.
San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan personally met with the residents late at night to experience the noise firsthand. The city is currently exploring the implementation of stronger standards and regulations for data centers. These potential new rules may include requiring data centers in San Jose to connect to the city's "purple pipe" recycled water network, a measure Mayor Mahan believes would also aid in expanding the city's recycled water system. Mahan has also committed to working with the data centers to mitigate noise and light issues through insulation or shielding and adjusting lighting.
The complaints in San Jose emerge at a time when data centers globally are facing increased scrutiny over their significant electricity and water consumption, leading some communities to consider moratoriums. While San Jose has not proposed a moratorium, it is actively engaging with residents and planning town halls in the coming months to develop and discuss these potential new standards and regulations.