Story perspectives

States Consider Data Center Moratoriums Amid Energy Concerns

4/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Lawmakers in Wisconsin, Georgia, and New York are weighing moratoriums on data center construction to let municipalities craft regulations.
Projections tied to artificial intelligence show United States data centers could use electricity beyond 28 million homes by 2028.
In Denver, Mayor Mike Johnston has urged a citywide moratorium amid health concerns from emissions.
Globeville and Elyria-Swansea residents demand transparency and stronger regulations from CoreSite, which is constructing a new facility.

History

Historical Context

The Clean Air Act of 1970 established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to regulate air emissions, influencing industries like CoreSite amid ongoing scrutiny over emissions. As states like Wisconsin and New York consider data center construction moratoriums, they reflect historical efforts to balance industrial growth with public health, especially as the tech sector's energy consumption is projected to match that of 28 million homes by 2028.

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Story summary

Lawmakers in Wisconsin, Georgia, and New York are weighing moratoriums on data center construction to let municipalities craft regulations.
Projections tied to artificial intelligence show United States data centers could use electricity beyond 28 million homes by 2028.
In Denver, Mayor Mike Johnston has urged a citywide moratorium amid health concerns from emissions.
Globeville and Elyria-Swansea residents demand transparency and stronger regulations from CoreSite, which is constructing a new facility.

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