VCU professor predicts data center growth is “approaching a ceiling." Peter Aiken, a data management authority, told VCU News that community pushback and the rise of “local AI” that can run on laptops could fundamentally shift the landscape. “For investors and localities alike, gambling everything on this industry right now carries substantial risk.” (Targeted News Service)
Colorado dueling data center bills among most lobbied at state Capitol. HB26-1030 offers $58 million in tax breaks; SB26-102 imposes environmental and location restrictions. The two bills represent the incentivize-or-regulate tension playing out in statehouses nationally. Lobbyist registrations are public record in most states. (Axios Denver)
AI-powered “virtual assistant” texted 1.17 million Wisconsin voters in Supreme Court race. First known AI voter outreach operation in Wisconsin. Generated 21,316 “meaningful conversations.” Wisconsin has no laws regulating AI in campaigns. Most states don't either. (Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)
China considering curbs on solar manufacturing equipment exports to U.S. China supplies 80%+ of global solar panel components. Could threaten domestic solar expansion. Wire story carried by 46 papers. (Reuters via Gannett)
Nearly 40% of U.S. data center sites at risk of delay due to lack of labor, power, and equipment, per Financial Times. (Gale)
FERC protests New Mexico pipeline for missing historic preservation review. Transwestern's “Green Chile Project” moved from expedited to standard review after failing to provide State Historic Preservation Office documentation. (Federal Register)
Delaware Water Gap and Tobyhanna Township, PA adopting data center zoning ordinances. Noise limits, water supply evaluation, DRBC applicability, and electrical capacity requirements. Another example of communities setting rules before developers arrive — like North Franklin Township in April 16 signals. (Pocono Record)