Top 5 Data Center Locality Stories: April 23, 2026

Melissa Palmer

April 23, 2026

Here are today’s most significant data center locality stories — regulatory battles, community opposition, and legal challenges shaping where data centers can be built across the United States.


1. Harford County, Maryland, could impose 90-day moratorium on data centers
Maryland · Government Policy
Harford County officials are considering a 90-day moratorium on new data center developments to assess their impact. This pause signals growing local regulatory scrutiny that could affect project timelines and investment decisions in the data center industry. Read here.

2. YCUA Board of Commissioners approves data center moratorium
Michigan · Government Policy
The Ypsilanti Community Utilities Authority Board of Commissioners has approved a moratorium on data center projects to evaluate infrastructure and environmental concerns. This local action reflects increasing caution among municipalities that could slow data center expansion in key markets. Read here.

3. Indianapolis proposes data center zoning rules, but critics say protections fall short
Indiana · Zoning Permit
Indianapolis city officials have proposed new zoning rules specifically targeting data center developments, though critics argue the measures lack sufficient protections for communities and the environment. These zoning efforts highlight the growing need for clear local regulations as data center projects increase in urban areas. Read here.

4. Wisconsin regulators to decide on We Energies’ data center electric rates
Wisconsin · Power Grid Or Energy
Wisconsin regulators are set to decide on electric rate structures proposed by We Energies that would affect data center customers. The outcome will influence operational costs and energy procurement strategies for data centers in the region. Read here.

5. Township Supervisors Across Pennsylvania Urge Colleagues to Adopt Zoning for Data Centers
Pennsylvania · Zoning Permit
Multiple township supervisors across Pennsylvania are actively urging their peers to adopt formal zoning regulations for data center developments. This coordinated local government push signals increasing grassroots regulatory control that could shape data center siting and expansion statewide. Read here.


This roundup is generated daily from our Data Center Locality Report. Subscribe for the full intelligence briefing.

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