Insights

Writing on the infrastructure, policy, and economics behind donated AI capacity.

- Local Approvals
- Policy
Navigating Local Responses to Data Center Proposals
Nick Cawthon · Sep 8, 2026 · 3 min read
As an Amazon facility sparks administrative code changes in Gilroy, California, local and state authorities across the nation are testing moratoria, working groups, and updated notice rules to manage data center growth.
Data Center Applications Face Completeness Reviews, Moratoriums, and Siting Guardrails
Nick Cawthon · Sep 1, 2026 · 3 min read
In Salem, Oregon, city officials paused a 600,000-square-foot data center application over incomplete submissions, while local and state leaders nationwide explore moratoriums, distance buffers, and utility conditions.
Navigating Data Center Proposals and Local Controls
Nick Cawthon · Aug 25, 2026 · 3 min read
An overview of how Memphis, Tennessee, and companion communities across the country are utilizing zoning reforms, moratoriums, site-plan reviews, and legal action in response to proposed data center facilities.
- Local Approvals
- Electrical Grid
- Moratoriums
Moratoriums, Grid Requirements, and Local Approvals
Nick Cawthon · Aug 18, 2026 · 3 min read
Fort Worth advances a 90-day moratorium and utility grid proof requirements, while companion communities evaluate non-disclosure agreement bans, permit pauses, site rejections, and monitored expansion.
- Policy
- Moratoriums
- Legal
Data Center Proposals Prompt Federal Lawsuits, Moratoriums, and Policy Debates
Nick Cawthon · Aug 11, 2026 · 3 min read
In Wixom, Michigan, a federal lawsuit challenges a citywide moratorium, while peer communities leverage judicial stays, tax incentive revisions, and grid reform strategies.