CT lawmakers, towns look to moratoriums to block new CT data centers
Connecticut lawmakers and municipalities are considering temporary moratoriums to stop or delay new data center development while officials study electricity costs, environmental impacts and community effects. Several towns have already prohibited new data centers, while others are preparing bans before developers file zoning applications.
Connecticut Senate President Bob Duff is expected to introduce legislation for a temporary statewide moratorium on new data centers, citing the need to evaluate their effects on ratepayers, the environment and local communities. State Rep. Raghib Allie-Brennan and Senator-elect Joe de la Cruz have also expressed support for a statewide pause, while Allie-Brennan said he opposes a proposed development at The Summit, a housing project on the former Union Carbide campus in Danbury.
Municipal action is expanding across the state. Cromwell is considering a six-month moratorium and a ban on tax breaks for data centers, while Ellington is taking up a moratorium proposal. New Haven, Groton, Trumbull, West Haven, Morris and East Lyme have voted to prohibit new data centers; officials in Harwinton and Beacon Falls are discussing similar measures. Developers have indicated plans in Beacon Falls, Danbury and Cromwell but have not yet submitted formal zoning applications.