Dover committee backs 18-month freeze on data centers

Dover Council’s Committee of the Whole has endorsed a potential 18-month moratorium on AI data center applications within city limits. Councilman David Anderson stated that if passed, the Dover City Council would not consider new applications for AI data centers. This proposed freeze allows the city time to understand technological advancements and recent state law changes, particularly regarding data center regulations that are not yet fully defined.

The initiative comes after Kent County enacted its own data center regulations last month. Anderson expressed concerns about the impact of data centers on energy costs, noise, light pollution, and water supply for Dover residents. He emphasized the need to prevent ratepayers from bearing significant costs for data center operations, citing a recent rate hike in Dover that faced public opposition. Additionally, Anderson noted state legislation, such as House Bill 445, which might require large energy users like data centers to self-generate power, and he wants to see its impact before city-level decisions. While environmental impacts are unclear, at least two entities have inquired about data center construction in Dover, though their names were not disclosed. The proposed pause must proceed through planning and zoning committees before reaching the full council, likely in October.