Kelly Ayotte Proposes New Hampshire Data Center Moratorium
The gubernatorial candidate plans to block future data center construction through the upcoming state budget.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Data Centers
Live Poll
Do you support the construction of new data centers in your local community?
Kelly Ayotte has announced a plan to implement a moratorium on data centers across New Hampshire. The proposal aims to halt the construction of these facilities by incorporating the ban directly into the gubernatorial budget.
Why it matters
The proposal addresses significant public concerns regarding the impact of large-scale infrastructure projects on local resources. Supporters argue that the move is necessary to stabilize energy rates and protect the electrical grid from excessive demand.
Data center infrastructure is currently under scrutiny for its high energy consumption and intensive water usage requirements. The proposal seeks to mitigate these technical demands on the state grid.
The players
Kelly Ayotte
Kelly Ayotte is a former U.S. Senator and current gubernatorial candidate who previously served as the Attorney General of New Hampshire.
The details
Ayotte cites specific concerns regarding the potential for environmental damage, noise pollution, and increased energy costs for residents. The announcement follows vocal opposition from local communities in Nottingham and Bow, where data center proposals were introduced earlier in the year.
Timeline
Earlier in 2026, residents in Nottingham and Bow opposed local data center proposals.
The Tech Race
This move signals a shift in how states manage the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure amidst growing local resistance. By utilizing the New Hampshire gubernatorial budget to enforce a pause, it challenges the regional momentum of massive data center development.
Residents may see an end to local facility developments that have sparked concerns over noise and rising utility bills. The policy directly impacts community planning by prioritizing local energy stability over large-scale industrial data projects.
The takeaway
The plan highlights a growing tension between the state's digital growth goals and the practical needs of residential energy consumers. Residents can expect continued debate as the proposal moves toward the budget drafting process.
Further reading
For more information on the infrastructure sector, visit Data Centers.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WMUR9.
Live Poll
Do you support the construction of new data centers in your local community?
