New York Suspends Construction of Large AI Data Centers

According to Sedaye Sama News Agency, citing The Guardian, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order on Tuesday imposing a one-year moratorium on the construction of large data centers used to support artificial intelligence applications across the state.

Hochul said the rapid expansion of data centers could increase utility costs, put pressure on natural resources, and create uncertainty for New Yorkers. She added that the pause would allow the state to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework to protect the public interest, reduce risks to the power grid, minimize land degradation and noise pollution, and safeguard water resources.

The executive order halts permits for very large data centers with electricity demands exceeding 50 megawatts. Regulatory agencies have also been instructed to develop standards addressing environmental impacts, energy demand, water consumption, and related issues.

The move comes as concerns grow across the United States over the environmental and economic impact of AI data centers. According to a recent Heatmap poll, nearly 75% of Americans oppose the construction of a data center near their homes, while more than 12 states are considering similar restrictions.

Source: Tasnim News Agency