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Pure Waters Calls for Stronger Environmental Review of Data Centers

GENEVA, N.Y. – Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association (Pure Waters) recently submitted formal comments to the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC), calling for a more comprehensive evaluation of the potential environmental impacts of large-scale data centers and related electrical infrastructure. The comments, developed by Pure Waters’ Vulcan Committee, were submitted as part of the public comment process for the state’s proposed Generic Environmental Impact Statement (GEIS). The review will examine environmental considerations associated with data center development across New York State.

While Pure Waters recognizes the draft scope as a starting point, the organization is urging the state to take a closer look at potential impacts on water resources, aquatic ecosystems, and surrounding communities.

Key recommendations include:

• Water quality: Study how data centers could affect water use, stormwater runoff, wastewater, and water temperatures.
• Aquatic life: Examine potential impacts on fish and other aquatic organisms.
• Environmental impacts: Consider effects beyond individual data center sites, including air emissions, energy infrastructure, and surrounding communities.
• State oversight: Give the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) a greater role in the review.
• Community involvement: Include local governments, watershed organizations, and residents in the review process.

These recommendations are especially relevant as data center projects are proposed across the Finger Lakes, including plans to support new AI and high-performance computing (HPC) data centers at the Greenidge facility in Dresden, which Vulcan Infrastructure and Power has taken ownership of through a restructuring. Existing power generation and cryptocurrency mining operations are expected to continue.

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Seneca Lake Pure Waters Association is a 501(c)3 organization committed to preserving, protecting, and promoting the abundant resources of the largest Finger Lake. Seneca Lake is a source of drinking water, recreation, and economic opportunity for the greater community and its visitors. Our programs and partnerships make it possible to monitor water quality, educate the public, and evaluate threats to ensure a healthy future for Seneca Lake and those who depend on it.