Clayton, New Jersey proposes regulations for data centers

The Borough of Clayton in Gloucester County, New Jersey, has introduced Ordinance 21-2026 to amend its Unified Development code. The ordinance aims to protect the municipality’s residential character, agricultural lands, and environmental resources from the impacts of large-scale data centers and battery energy storage systems.

The proposal cites concerns regarding the intense land use requirements of these facilities, specifically noting their high electricity and water consumption. The ordinance references data from the New Jersey State Legislature suggesting that large data centers can consume between 3 and 5 million gallons of water daily for cooling and power generation. Additionally, the ordinance highlights that some facilities require approximately 300 MW of electricity, and expresses concern over rising consumer energy costs and the potential impact of high-tech developments on subterranean aquifers and drinking water quality.