NJ groups call on Governor Sherrill to pause AI data center projects
Over 60 New Jersey environmental and advocacy groups have urged Governor Mikie Sherrill to temporarily halt the approval and construction of data centers using 20 megawatts or more of power. They seek this pause to allow for the development of legislation and regulations addressing concerns like water usage, air and noise pollution, chemical contamination, and electricity grid strain.
More than 60 environmental and advocacy organizations across New Jersey have sent a letter to Governor Mikie Sherrill, requesting a temporary pause on the approval and construction of new data centers consuming at least 20 megawatts of power. The groups, including the Climate Revolution Action Network and the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, are seeking a moratorium until common-sense legislation and regulations can be established to mitigate environmental impacts and protect residents.
Concerns highlighted by advocates like Ben Dziobek and Elliott Ruga include significant water consumption, particularly in the drought-prone Highlands region which supplies 80% of New Jersey's water. Other issues raised are air and noise pollution, potential chemical contamination, and increased electricity costs due to the need for new substations and strain on the existing grid. The groups prioritize ensuring data centers use 100% renewable energy on-site to avoid drawing from the public grid.
In response, a spokesperson for Governor Sherrill, Darwin Pham, stated that the Governor believes data centers must bring their own clean power and manage their environmental impact responsibly. Sherrill intends to continue working with the legislature to establish 'guardrails' for accountability, ensuring benefits for New Jerseyans while addressing the industry's growth.