Data center moratorium extended in city of Charlotte: What to know
The Charlotte City Council unanimously extended the city’s data center moratorium until October 18, 2027. The moratorium pauses the acceptance, processing and approval of new data center applications while city leaders review existing rules and consider additional regulations amid concerns about infrastructure, electricity, water use and environmental impacts.
The Charlotte City Council unanimously extended the city’s data center moratorium until Oct. 18, 2027, nearly a year beyond the original 150-day pause scheduled to expire Nov. 5, 2026. The measure continues to halt the acceptance, processing and approval of new data center applications within city limits, while preserving approvals granted before the initial moratorium took effect in June.
City officials said the extension will provide time to evaluate existing ordinances and develop best practices for data center development. Residents, Action NC and local climate groups have raised concerns about infrastructure strain, electricity and water consumption, pollution, noise and potential chemical leaks, including in connection with the proposed PowerHouse Charlotte project and another proposed facility in east Charlotte.