Large data centers would report construction water use to DEP and towns

The owner or operator must prepare a construction water use plan and submit it to DEP and the municipality with the local development application. This applies to a data center with an actual or projected peak electrical load of at least 25 megawatts that seeks local approval to establish a facility in New Jersey. It excludes facilities used mainly for a licensed health care provider's or facility's own operations, unless they serve unaffiliated businesses commercially. The plan must describe water sources, estimated water use and withdrawals, construction duration, and possible effects on the municipality and its residents, including drinking water supplies and quality. The plan must be submitted with the local development application. This requirement would begin no later than 12 months after the section takes effect.