New York State Legislature Proposes Data Center Moratorium, Faces Local Opposition
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) issued a statement opposing proposed New York State legislation for a data center moratorium. The GCEDC argues this legislation would hinder local decision-making and could prevent the STREAM US Data Centers project in Alabama, NY, from moving forward. The project is currently undergoing environmental review, with preliminary findings indicating minimal impact on utilities and noise.
The Genesee County Economic Development Center (GCEDC) has issued a statement condemning a proposed data center moratorium legislation by the New York State Legislature. The GCEDC views this as an attempt to undermine local decision-making, particularly impacting the STREAM US Data Centers project located at the Science & Technology Advanced Manufacturing Park (STAMP) in the town of Alabama, NY. This project is reportedly weeks away from local government approvals.
The proposed legislation would mandate the development of regulations to mitigate environmental impacts and assess electricity cost increases due to power consumption. The GCEDC asserts that the STREAM US Data Centers project is already undergoing a stringent environmental review, which has indicated minimal impact on residential utility bills from electricity usage, low water consumption due to a closed-loop cooling system, and adherence to local noise thresholds with propane generators for backup power.
A public comment included in the article reflects strong opposition from citizens, who feel the data center is being "crammed down our throats" and demand a pause on the development. The comment also questions the GCEDC's stance, citing moratoriums in other states as evidence of potential problems with data centers.