Odd Lots · Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Governor Kathy Hochul announced a one-year moratorium on new large data center construction in New York State, citing concerns about energy consumption and the need for a community investment framework. The moratorium aims to provide certainty for businesses while ensuring data centers contribute equitably to local communities and the power grid.
“So, Tracy, big news in a New York State today. We know there's been a lot of AI politics, a lot of data center backlash. I was really expecting it, but New York State becoming the first state to institute a formal data center moratorium, at least for one year.”
“Well, there's been really what I call flood the zone. There's been a lot of companies that may have been contemplating putting in plans for data centers, massive data centers around the country, but all of a sudden, it seems like there's been a surge, and I have to respond to that.”
“It is not a ban. It is simply saying step back, take a breath, and get it right.”