Northborough sets 5‑MW cap, special‑permit path for data centers

The Select Board reviewed Article 53, which would allow data centers in specified industrial areas only by special permit and subject to conditions intended to address electricity, water and noise impacts.

Planning staff recommended a 5 MW maximum projected electrical demand at full build‑out, a threshold chosen because Iron Mountain (an existing data center) is 3.6 MW and has produced no complaints for the town. The board said applicants must demonstrate adequate electrical infrastructure and disclose water needs; staff noted Iron Mountain reports on its website that it recycles water, and board members flagged Grafton’s example where an applicant seeking one million gallons per day was denied.

Select Board members discussed siting: data centers would be allowed only in industrial zones (some industrial parcels border residential areas) and the planning board added requirements for sound studies before and after construction. One Select Board member summarized the reasoning: "we didn't want to go over five because then you you're drawing more electricity than the homes in our town." The board indicated it plans to continue refining the language and may return next year with additional updates to the bylaw.

The draft remains on the warrant for town meeting and would require a special‑permit application process for any applicant.