ALBANY, New York (WWNY) – New York has become the first state in the nation to impose a moratorium on data centers, after Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an executive order Tuesday.
The order pauses state permitting on new data center construction for up to one year, giving lawmakers time to consider protections for residents and the environment.
Hochul said the scale and speed of data center construction places an unprecedented strain on New York’s energy grids and water resources.
“New York will always welcome investment and innovation and will always stand up for our workers and our people,” Hochul said. “No one gets to build their future by asking hardworking New Yorkers to sacrifice theirs.”
The governor said she will require future data centers to supply their own power or pay a premium to tap into the state’s grid.
Some labor groups argue the short-term moratorium will stifle economic growth and send projects to other states.
Copyright 2026 WWNY. All rights reserved.