FACT CHECK: Ayotte Paved the Way for Massive Data Center Eyed in Bow

FACT CHECK: Ayotte Paved the Way for Massive Data Center Eyed in Bow
 

For months, Costly Kelly refused to “support a statewide data center moratorium.” Now, as a “massive data center could be headed to Bow,” she’s conveniently changed her tune, “represent[ing] a shift in her position.” Public filings describe that an “exploratory study” will be conducted by Eversource Energy to consider the construction of a 350-megawatt data center project in Bow, New Hampshire. 

HERE ARE THE REAL FACTS: 

• Kelly Ayotte signed legislation that opens up the doors for data centers by exempting off-grid energy producers from Public Utilities Commission oversight and renewable energy requirements. 

• Utility costs have already climbed 15% under Costly Kelly’s failed leadership, and these water-guzzling data centers will only drive up the costs of electricity more for Granite Staters.

• Ayotte took a campaign contribution from the developer who proposed a data center in Nottingham and has taken $138,000 from the data center industry. The developer's proposal “ignited a firestorm,” with 20,000+ people signing on to a petition opposing the project. 

“Kelly Ayotte wants Granite Staters to believe she suddenly became the champion of stopping data centers, but the facts tell a very different story,” said NHDP Chair Ray Buckley. “If Costly Kelly cared about protecting ratepayers, she would take immediate action. Instead, all she’s offered is empty words of opposition.”