Ban On Data Centers, Battery Storage In Raritan Discussed

RARITAN, NJ — The Raritan Planning Board voted to send a recommendation to council to consider an ordinance addressing data centers and battery energy storage systems.

At the June 24 meeting, the board pointed to several concerns tied to data centers and battery energy storage systems, including infrastructure, utilities, noise, environmental issues, water usage and emergency preparedness.

According to the discussion, the proposed action was not to adopt a rule at that meeting, but to send a recommendation to council for review.

Board Attorney Matthew Flynn said, "I can just add that I represent a couple towns that do that, did indeed put forth a zoning ordinance that prohibited data centers in all zones, and would be happy to share that documentation, should the board so desire it."

He added that the ordinance also has a specific definition that's designed to address the battery storae issue as well.

The board ultimately agreed to send the recommendation to the Borough Council.

Several towns in New Jersey have passed ordinances banning data centers, including Bernards Township and Warren Township.

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