US Local Governments Enact Wave of Data Center Moratoriums

Local governments across the United States are enacting a wave of moratoriums on new data center developments to study environmental, infrastructure, and community impacts. In a coordinated trend, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Development Commission unanimously approved a freeze on new projects through 2027, allocating $150,000 for research into sound levels and building heights. Similar measures were passed by the Anderson County Council in South Carolina and the Gregg Township Board of Supervisors in Pennsylvania, both citing the need to establish regulatory frameworks before approving large-scale facilities.

Other jurisdictions, including the Greensboro City Council, the Carter County Commission, and the Westover City Council, have implemented pauses ranging from 180 days to one year. In Calvert County, commissioners passed a six-month moratorium following Amazon's withdrawal of a $22 billion proposal. The Camden Town Board also approved a moratorium after residents raised concerns regarding the Tug Hill Aquifer and electrical resources.

While most officials argue these pauses are necessary to protect public health and safety, industry groups like the Data Center Coalition warn that such measures discourage investment. Some local leaders have faced intense pressure; in Statesboro, Mayor Jonathan McCollar cast a tie-breaking vote to allow rezoning for a potential data center despite hundreds of protesters. Meanwhile, the Lowndes County Commission is scheduled to consider its own interim moratorium on August 25.