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Planning board recommends extending moratoriums on data centers and related technologies through 2028
Summary
After extended public comment on groundwater, infrasound, battery risks and permitting jurisdiction, the board voted to recommend that current moratoriums on data centers, large battery energy storage, hydrogen energy transfer and related projects be extended to Jan. 1, 2028, and to forward that recommendation to the county commissioners.
The McPherson County Planning Board voted to recommend extending existing moratoriums on data centers, large battery energy storage systems, hydrogen energy transfer and other high‑impact energy projects to Jan. 1, 2028, and to forward that recommendation to the county commissioners. The motion to extend all current moratoriums was moved and seconded and carried.
Public commenters and board members discussed multiple reasons for a pause: regional groundwater constraints (staff said the county is experiencing net groundwater declines and is part of a larger groundwater management district), fire and disposal risks related to large battery installations, the unknown long‑term impacts of infrasound and EMF on nearby residents, and unclear regulatory pathways for water appropriation and battery operations. The zoning administrator reported outreach to KDHE, KDA‑DWR and the Kansas Corporation Commission to clarify state permitting authority and to request input on conditions local government can require. Staff also proposed requiring certified pre‑ and post‑construction monitoring for infrasound where appropriate.
The board approved a recommendation to the commissioners to extend the moratoriums through Jan. 1, 2028; the extension is a pause while staff coordinates with state agencies and drafts potential zoning amendments to govern siting, monitoring and remediation requirements for such facilities.
