Shawnee Township approves 18-month moratorium on data centers, energy projects

Shawnee Township, located in Allen County, Ohio, has formally approved an 18-month moratorium on the development of data centers, battery energy storage systems, and solar energy fields. The unanimous vote by the Shawnee Township trustees on Monday night came after a recommendation from the township’s zoning board. During a recent zoning board meeting, residents voiced concerns regarding the rapid growth of these types of developments, stressing the importance of establishing appropriate regulations for projects planned across northwest Ohio. The temporary halt aims to allow officials to address regulatory issues amid increasing interest in large-scale energy and technology projects. In a related development, the Findlay City Council is currently evaluating a proposal for a 12-month moratorium on new data center construction and building conversions, effective April 2026. The council is scheduled to discuss this measure at an upcoming meeting, signaling a broader regional effort among local municipalities to manage and regulate such developments.