Ace Parsi Will Propose Data Center Restrictions
Democratic candidate Ace Parsi seeks to regulate data center power usage in West Virginia.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Data Centers
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Democratic candidate Ace Parsi announced his candidacy for West Virginia's 2nd Congressional District this January. Parsi plans to introduce the Neighbors, Not Servers Act to regulate large-scale data center construction.
Why it matters
The proposed legislation aims to address concerns that current power grids in rural areas cannot support the high energy demands of large data centers. Parsi argues that strict oversight is necessary to manage rapid digital development.
The proposed moratorium targets facilities requiring 20 megawatts or more of power. Developers violating the terms would face daily fines of up to $1 million, while parties signing non-disclosure agreements regarding non-compliance would also face penalties.
The players
Ace Parsi
A 44-year-old Democratic candidate for Congress who previously worked as an AmeriCorps worker.
Riley Moore
The Republican incumbent currently serving in the 2nd Congressional District.
The details
The Neighbors, Not Servers Act would impose a moratorium on the construction of data centers that exceed a 20-megawatt energy threshold. Parsi claims this measure is essential to prevent a digital boomtown mentality from overwhelming rural infrastructure.
Timeline
Ace Parsi announced his candidacy on Martin Luther King Day in January 2026.
The congressional election is scheduled to take place in November 2026.
The Tech Race
This proposal highlights the tension between the rapidly expanding digital infrastructure industry and the limitations of aging local energy grids. It represents a broader shift toward federal oversight of data center development to replace unchecked industrial growth.
The proposal could lead to stricter permitting processes and construction moratoriums, directly impacting local utility demand and digital expansion projects. Residents may see changes in how data centers are integrated into their regional power networks.
The takeaway
Voters will soon decide whether to support federal intervention in rural infrastructure management. This election highlights how energy-intensive technologies are influencing local political agendas.
Further reading
For more context on infrastructure developments, visit Data Centers.
More information
For more information on the campaign platform, visit the Official campaign website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Dominion Post.
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Should your local government place a moratorium on large-scale data center construction projects?
