Denver Announces Data Center Moratorium as Opposition Picks Up Steam Around the Country
News ClipGizmodo·Denver County, CO·2/25/2026
The city of Denver is imposing a moratorium on new data center development as local opposition to data centers grows around the country. The review process will target responsible land, energy, and water use as well as zoning and affordability for ratepayers. Several states are also considering multi-year moratoriums on data centers.
zoningoppositionenvironmentalannouncementgovernmentelectricitywatermoratorium
Gov: Loudoun County Board of Supervisors, Virginia DEQ
Denver Mayor Mike Johnston announced a moratorium on new data center development in the city, as officials review policies around land, energy, and water use. The move is driven by public concerns over data centers' energy demands, water shortages, and environmental impact. Calls for similar moratoriums have emerged across the U.S., with several states considering 2-4 year pauses on new data center approvals. Experts warn that the rapid growth of data centers and AI technology requires more regulatory oversight and transparent data from operators to understand their societal and economic implications.