300-plus local data center bans have only delayed just three US projects
SemiAnalysis mapped more than 300 local data center moratoriums against the US pipeline and found only three projects actually delayed.
Over 300 local data center construction bans haven't significantly disrupted planned projects, with just three out of 21 gigawatts (GW) of data centers in these areas potentially delayed, according to SemiAnalysis. The total capacity expected to be built next year is projected at 38 GW. Only about 2.3 GW of the 20 GW covered by the moratoriums is likely to be delayed, with the remaining 17.7 GW unaffected.
New York's moratorium adds an additional 0.8 GW. The report suggests that moratoriums may not be as effective as feared, as existing approvals aren't revoked, and other factors can push projects forward. For instance, Michigan has 45 moratoriums but no pipeline impact, and a Google campus there is already zoned for data processing.
SpaceX's Texas data center is also out of reach due to city zoning changes. The 2.3 GW delay figure doesn't account for Texas' TCEQ pause, which could impact buildout forecasts. While moratoriums could deter new projects, widespread and restrictive measures would be needed to significantly delay the U.S. data center buildout.
Written by urgent.news from Tom's Hardware's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
