# New York Pauses Large Data Center Permits

New York has temporarily paused permits for data centers larger than 50 MW that require state approval while it reviews their environmental impacts. National Grid reports more than 54 pending large-load projects totaling nearly 7,300 MW; 35 of those projects, totaling 4,800 MW, are not in the NYISO queue. For developers, utilities, and contractors, the review may affect project timing and the path to state approval. The reported public-comment deadline is October 20, 2026—today—so interested parties should submit comments by that date if they have not already done so.

- The pause applies to data centers above 50 MW that require state approval; it is not described as a statewide halt on all data center development.
- The project pipeline indicates substantial prospective demand for electricity and related grid, site, and facility infrastructure, including projects not represented in the NYISO queue.
- Developers and contractors with affected projects should account for the environmental review and permitting pause in project schedules and use the stated comment opportunity by today’s deadline.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities, Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** October 20, 2026

### Government Entities
- New York State Department of Public Service (DPS)
- New York State Public Service Commission (PSC)
- New York State Board on Electric Generation Siting and the Environment (Siting Board)
- New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA)

### Sources
- [Utilities flag large load influx - POLITICO](https://www.politico.com/newsletters/weekly-new-york-new-jersey-energy/2026/10/19/utilities-flag-large-load-influx-01125795) - Politico