Seattle leaders are considering a temporary pause on new large-scale data centers after a strong public response to several proposed projects. Four companies had approached Seattle City Light about building five facilities that together could require up to 369 megawatts of electricity, roughly one-third of the city’s average daily power use.
Since the proposals became public, two developers have withdrawn their plans, including Tukwila-based Sabey. Two companies, Equinix and Prologis, still have proposals under consideration for three data centers with a combined demand of 249 megawatts.
Seattle City Councilmembers Eddie Lin, Debora Juarez, and Council President Joy Hollingsworth announced plans to introduce legislation creating a one-year moratorium on new large data centers. Mayor Katie Wilson has also expressed support for the proposal. Supporters say the pause would allow the city to evaluate long-term policies related to energy demand, infrastructure, and utility costs.
Seattle City Light has stated that serving major new power loads could create challenges in maintaining reliable service for existing customers and businesses.
