Bloomington Releases Draft Data Center Regulations

The regulations create three defined types of data centers: accessory, small scale commercial and hyperscale. An accessory data center would share a building with an office and its use is related to the business of that office. A small-scale commercial data center would be less than 10 acres and use less than 10 megawatts of power.

Hyperscale centers would require a special use permit and could only be placed in general manufacturing districts. They must also be at least 1,000 feet away from any home, hospital, daycare or school building under the draft code. Small commercial data centers could be placed in general manufacturing, restricted manufacturing, office and the downtown warehouse and art districts.

Applicants would be required to provide reports on noise and vibration impacts, water use, water disposal and discharge, and energy consumption. The water report must identify a water source, estimated daily and peak water demand, and strategies for water efficiency. The energy report must include estimated annual energy usage and strategies for energy efficient and grid impact reduction.