Ashley Wilmes, executive director of the Kentucky Resources Council, said there is no statewide regulation of data centers. Instead, local governments are trying to figure out how to zone buildings that are part warehouse, part computer processing, and often part energy production facility. Wilmes explained a new zoning classification system developed by the Council can help counties prepare.
“We think that there needs to be a framework. That includes this new zoning classification plus a conditional use permit that really maximizes public input,” Wilmes stressed.
The model ordinance addresses issues like noise pollution from computer cooling systems and backup power generation, the release of contaminated cooling water into the air, and energy and water consumption and the subsequent effects on ratepayers…