New York Governor Urged to Veto Data Center Moratorium Bill
A commentary piece urges New York Gov. Kathy Hochul to veto the Responsible Data Center Development Act, which proposes a one-year moratorium on new data center permitting. The author argues that such a moratorium would contradict the state's vision for AI leadership and economic growth, which requires significant computing and electric infrastructure. The article suggests New York can address energy concerns while still attracting technology investment.
John R. Gordon, director of public policy and external affairs for the Strategic Power Coalition, has called on New York Governor Kathy Hochul to veto the Responsible Data Center Development Act, a bill recently passed by the state Legislature.
The proposed legislation would impose a one-year moratorium on new data center permitting statewide. Gordon argues that this would undermine Gov. Hochul's established vision of positioning New York as a leader in artificial intelligence and attracting significant technology investment, both of which necessitate robust computing infrastructure and a reliable, expanding electricity supply.
The commentary highlights the governor's ongoing initiatives to modernize electric infrastructure, including plans for new nuclear generation, to meet the anticipated surge in electricity demand from AI, advanced manufacturing, and electrification. Gordon suggests that a moratorium would send conflicting signals about New York's economic direction at a critical time when other states are actively competing for similar growth and investment. He acknowledges valid concerns regarding large electricity users and grid reliability but asserts that a moratorium is a counterproductive approach.
Gordon concludes that New York has already articulated a constructive path forward that balances AI development, data center growth, interconnection reform, and advanced nuclear deployment, allowing the state to address data center-related issues while remaining competitive in the evolving technological landscape.