Coalition of 500 Groups Demands Federal Moratorium on Data Centers

The newly formed Stop Data Centers Coalition, facilitated by Food & Water Watch, contends that the current building frenzy is driving up electricity prices and straining natural resources while relying heavily on fossil fuels. Organizers argue that the industry requires a pause to establish robust regulatory safeguards, citing concerns over long-term environmental damage and social instability. This push aligns with the Artificial Intelligence Data Center Moratorium Act, previously introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

The demand for federal intervention comes just after EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin signaled a hands-off approach to the sector. Speaking at the Politico Energy Summit, Zeldin stated he would not establish national requirements, deferring instead to local oversight. Critics, including Public Citizen’s Clara Vondrich, described the administration's stance as a green light for Big Tech to prioritize rapid development over public health, despite polling data showing that a majority of registered voters fear data centers will inflate their monthly utility costs.