Data centers

Despite seven new statewide laws regulating data centers, at least 26 resolutions, moratoriums, or bans on data centers have been passed or proposed in California since June.

The governor has already halted data center construction on state lands. Now she has directed regulators to pause environmental permits for data centers, in a move criticized by the industry.

Humboldt County supervisors debated whether existing permits offer enough oversight as county staff members develop rules for future data centers.

The watchdog Citizens’ Utility Board called the agreement with Pacific Power “the strongest from a for-profit electric utility yet” under Oregon’s POWER Act.

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed seven data center bills into law on Monday, signaling a tide change toward regulation of the industry.

A first-of-its-kind report details the footprint of the controversial facilities.

The committee posted a 20-page report of “preliminary learnings and questions” the public can comment on through Oct. 24.

A coalition of environmental, farm and social advocacy groups want Kotek to issue a multi-year moratorium on data centers in Oregon.

Lawmakers wrapped up their legislative session in Sacramento this week following tumultuous debates and last-minute proposals.

The Northwest needs to generate as much new electricity by 2032 as the state of Oregon currently uses.

Oregon would join 15 other states that have proposed data center pauses in the last year.

The State Lands Department is updating rules for companies that run cables through Oregon’s territorial sea and proposing higher fees to go to the Common School Fund.