Illinois is one of the most moratorium-heavy states in the country, with at least 54 moratoriums enacted and only 5 rejected, reflecting deep and widespread local skepticism about data center development. Zoning outcomes offer some counterbalance with at least 37 approvals against 11 denials, suggesting that projects which advance past moratoriums have a reasonable chance of permitting success. However, at least 8 projects have been blocked compared to 4 approved despite opposition. At least 59 companies remain active, signaling strong market confidence in the Chicago metro and broader Illinois market despite the challenging regulatory landscape. Compared to neighboring Indiana, where moratorium counts are significantly lower and opposition outcomes are more favorable, Illinois presents a notably harder path for developers.
Regulatory Environment Score
Illinois is one of the most moratorium-heavy states in the country, with at least 54 moratoriums enacted and only 5 rejected, reflecting deep and widespread local skepticism about data center development. Zoning outcomes offer some counterbalance with at least 37 approvals against 11 denials, suggesting that projects which advance past moratoriums have a reasonable chance of permitting success. However, at least 8 projects have been blocked compared to 4 approved despite opposition. At least 59 companies remain active, signaling strong market confidence in the Chicago metro and broader Illinois market despite the challenging regulatory landscape. Compared to neighboring Indiana, where moratorium counts are significantly lower and opposition outcomes are more favorable, Illinois presents a notably harder path for developers.
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