Wilmington Select Board may prohibit large data centers

The town of Wilmington, Massachusetts, is actively considering a proposed bylaw that would effectively prohibit large-scale artificial intelligence data centers, defined as those drawing more than 2 megawatts of power, from operating within its limits. The discussion, initiated in May, stems from growing concerns over the substantial land, electricity, and water resources required by modern hyperscale data centers for AI development.

Wilmington Planning and Development Director Valerie Gingrich informed the Select Board about the distinction between traditional data centers and the new, resource-intensive AI-focused facilities. The proposed bylaw, currently under review by the Planning Board with a public hearing set for September 29, aims to establish clear local regulations. It would allow smaller data centers (under 2 megawatts) in specific industrial zones but prohibit larger ones, requiring a special permit process that evaluates factors like noise and resource consumption.

This local initiative aligns with recent statewide actions by Gov. Maura Healey's administration. In June, the state suspended sales tax exemptions for data centers and mandated that operating companies cover the full cost of their clean energy supply. Earlier in the month, Healey issued an executive order requiring local approval for data centers via community benefit agreements. Select Board member Jacob Gearwar, who helped draft the bylaw, expressed strong support, anticipating its easy passage and approval by the Attorney General's Office.