Proposal to restrict large data centers in Ohio takes next step toward ballot

Ohio voters may get to decide on restricting large, energy-intensive data centers, as a proposed constitutional amendment has successfully completed its first step towards the statewide ballot. The Ohio Ballot Board has given its approval to the ballot language submitted by Ohio Residents for Responsible Development, empowering the group to commence gathering over 413,000 signatures from at least 44 counties by July 1. If successful, the measure will appear on the November ballot, allowing voters to weigh in on limiting the construction of new data centers with significant electricity demands. Simultaneously, the Ohio General Assembly is working to establish a commission tasked with studying the economic, environmental, and infrastructure impacts of data centers across the state. Governor Mike DeWine emphasized the necessity of evaluating both the advantages and disadvantages of this expanding industry. He noted that while data centers contribute to economic growth, they also consume substantial amounts of water and electricity. DeWine highlighted efforts with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO) to ensure data centers pay their equitable share, preventing them from unduly increasing electricity rates for other consumers. Ohio currently ranks fifth nationally in data center numbers, with approximately 200 facilities.