Alternative Green Energy

State lawmakers pass one-year moratorium on large data centers

New York state lawmakers have passed a one-year moratorium on the permitting of large data centers (20 megawatts or larger), pending Governor Kathy Hochul's signature. The legislation, named the "Responsible Data Center Development Act," addresses concerns over electricity strain, increased water consumption, and potential fossil fuel usage. It requires the state's Department of Environmental Conservation to conduct an environmental impact report on data center development across the state.