Conserve Ohio

Ohio voters will not vote on a proposed constitutional amendment to ban large data centers in November 2024. Conserve Ohio, the group behind the amendment, aims to place it on the 2027 ballot after failing to meet the July 1 signature deadline. The amendment would prohibit data centers with a peak load exceeding 25 megawatts per month, a threshold that would block most modern facilities.

Big tech companies including Amazon, Meta, Google, and Microsoft defended their data centers before Ohio lawmakers, emphasizing economic benefits and environmental commitments. However, public opposition grew due to concerns over tax breaks, environmental impacts, and secrecy, with lawmakers and advocacy groups criticizing the companies' lack of transparency and responsiveness.