New Hampshire Republicans Pursue Moratorium on AI Data Centers

The Republican majority in New Hampshire is pursuing a moratorium on new AI data center projects following proposals for two facilities in the capital region, specifically at a vacant lot in East Concord and the former Merrimack Station power plant in Bow.

Sharon Carson, the Senate President, announced plans to author legislation that would require developers to address noise nuisances and expected electricity and water costs before projects proceed. Carson stated the goal is to prevent taxpayers from bearing development costs and to mitigate environmental impacts. This policy shift aligns with previous support for a moratorium expressed by Governor Kelly Ayotte.

Democratic State Senator Debra Altschiller criticized the move as opportunistic, noting that Republicans previously gutted SB 439, a Democratic bill that would have imposed design and noise requirements on such facilities. Altschiller claimed Republicans amended that bill to expressly allow data centers in commercial and industrial zones, only to pivot their position weeks before an election.

The shift comes as a UNH Survey Center poll indicates 67% of residents oppose local data center construction. The next legislative session is scheduled to begin in January 2027.