State Sen. Ryan backs Hochul's data center freeze, says New York needs to get this right
New York State Senator Christopher Ryan supports Governor Kathy Hochul's executive order to pause new hyperscale data center approvals across New York for up to a year. This freeze aims to allow the state to regulate the rapidly expanding industry, address energy capacity, and manage utility costs and water demands. The statewide moratorium supersedes several local pauses already adopted in Central New York towns.
New York State Senator Christopher Ryan has voiced support for Governor Kathy Hochul's executive order to enact a one-year freeze on new hyperscale data center approvals across the state. Governor Hochul signed the order, effective Tuesday, to allow the state time to develop regulations for the rapidly growing data center industry, which includes massive server farms powering various digital services from streaming to AI.
Senator Ryan emphasized that the pause provides an opportunity to strengthen New York's energy infrastructure, including nuclear and renewable sources. He highlighted concerns that Central New Yorkers should not bear the financial burden of the immense energy and water demands of these facilities, citing rising utility costs and energy scarcity. Ryan also noted the potential for union jobs and economic growth if projects are planned responsibly and supported by adequate infrastructure.
The statewide moratorium will supersede local freezes previously adopted by several towns in Central New York. For instance, Manlius approved a one-year moratorium in July, while Clay implemented a similar pause in June. Lysander's town board had voted for a six-month moratorium in May following resident concerns about a proposed 300-megawatt facility from Renalli Super DC, LLC. Governor Hochul's objective is for New York to set a national precedent in regulating data center development, balancing grid protection and environmental concerns with economic benefits.