New York Imposes One-Year Moratorium on New Ultra-Large AI Data Centers

New York has imposed a one-year moratorium on new ultra-large AI data centers, becoming the first state to do so statewide, as officials move to address concerns about strain on the electric grid and heavy water use for cooling. The executive order applies to facilities needing 50 megawatts or more and pauses state environmental permits while regulators develop new standards for energy demand, water usage, and other environmental impacts. Gov. Kathy Hochul said the goal is to protect ratepayers, communities, and natural resources while the state builds a regulatory framework for future projects.