New Jersey would pause large data center construction until after study

Builders could not construct a covered data center, and state or local agencies could not issue permits to site, build, or start operating one. This covers New Jersey data centers with a combined computer equipment electricity load of at least 25 megawatts. Projects approved or under construction before the law takes effect would be exempt. The pause would start when the law takes effect and end 90 days after the department sends its report to the Governor and Legislature.

The Department of Environmental Protection would study data center development and report its findings to the Governor and Legislature. The report would cover environmental, infrastructure, and financial effects in New Jersey, including utility rates and whether some communities bear a greater share of the impacts. The department would invite public comments, hold at least one public hearing, and consult utility and community affairs agencies as needed. The report would be due no later than 15 months after the law takes effect.