Communities near Ohio data centers could get a statewide impact review

Ohio lawmakers are considering a proposal to closely examine the fast growth of data centers and what those facilities mean for power systems, water supplies and nearby communities.

The measure would create a Data Center Study Commission within the Ohio Department of Development. The group would study the effects of large computing facilities, commonly known as data centers, which the proposal defines as physical locations equipped with computers used to process or transmit data.

These facilities support online services, cloud computing and artificial intelligence systems. As more are built, state and local officials are weighing how they fit into local infrastructure, land use and environmental planning.

What the commission would study

The proposed commission would examine a wide range of issues tied to data center development. That includes environmental impacts and the effect large facilities can have on the electric grid, including power used directly at the site and possible effects on consumer utility rates.

Water would be another focus. The group would look at how data centers use water, how wastewater is handled and how facilities may affect local water supplies.

Other topics include noise and light pollution, potential effects on farmland and the role the facilities play in local economies. The proposal also directs the commission to consider how data centers relate to national security and the development of artificial intelligence.

The panel could also review reports of foreign propaganda campaigns intended to stir opposition to data center projects, along with any other issues members consider relevant.

Who would serve on the panel

The commission would combine lawmakers with subject matter experts and local government voices. Three members appointed by the governor would bring knowledge of data center operations, agriculture and county government.

Legislative leaders would appoint ten additional members. Those appointees would include lawmakers from both major parties and people with experience in areas such as rural electric cooperatives, township government, municipal government, environmental and water impacts, public utilities and economic development incentives.

Members would serve without pay. A House majority party member and a Senate majority party member would act as co chairs.