New York becomes first US state to impose moratorium on new large data centers

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signed an executive order making New York the first state in the US to enact a statewide moratorium on new hyperscale data centers. The order blocks environmental permits for data centers exceeding 50 megawatts for up to one year. The pause is intended to give the state time to develop regulations addressing rising energy costs and environmental concerns for residents. A separate bill passed by the state legislature, which sets a lower threshold of 20 megawatts, is still awaiting the governor's signature.