New York became the first US state to enact a moratorium on new data centers on Monday, halting a wave of construction driven by surging demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure.
Governor Kathy Hochul signed an executive order imposing a one-year pause on permitting for hyperscale facilities — those drawing more than 50 megawatts of electrical capacity. The Department of Public Service will develop environmental and energy guidelines during the suspension, with rules intended to protect local resources. Hochul acted via executive order after the state legislature had already passed a moratorium bill.
The move carries broad public backing: a June poll found 46% of New Yorkers supported a one-year pause, while 21% opposed it. The order blocks state regulators from approving new environmental permits for the duration of the freeze.