Data Centers

It’s one of several local governments to suspend accepting applications — despite not having any proposals submitted.

The pushback is the latest in a series of similar steps by local governments across the state, joining Pasco, Nassau and Citrus counties, which have all pursued rules blocking any new data centers. City commissioners in Lakeland took steps this week to do the same.

Commissioners asked the city attorney to draft a 12-month pause on large-scale facilities, with votes expected in July.

Duke Energy proposed a data center tariff, required under a new state law to shield Floridians from increased costs. But the Office of Public Counsel says it doesn't comply.

Pasco County could joins other municipalities across the state that are considering or have imposed moratoriums on data centers.

At least two commissioners want time to develop rules for a fast-growing industry that is not addressed in Lakeland’s land use code.

Jackson County commissioners voted unanimously to pass a ban on all data center infrastructure in the area. The ban begins June 23rd.

The Orlando plant had been scheduled for retirement in 2025. The order cited an energy emergency related to a shortage of facilities and proliferation of data centers.

Large-load data centers that help power artificial intelligence programs have been springing up across the country, raising concerns about noise pollution, higher electricity costs, and increased water use.

The “Project Swan” proposal remains active. The applicant only withdrew from the scheduled June 3 Development Review Team meeting, not from the development review process.

The proposal is for a 600,000-square-foot data center.

More than 50 residents attended Monday’s City Commission meeting, despite a city effort to explain that the project remains in the earliest stages of review.