The pause temporarily stops the city from accepting, processing or approving applications for new data centers within city limits. It does not affect projects that had already received approval before the original moratorium took effect June 8.

City leaders say the extension will give them time to assess existing rules, consider new ordinances and develop best practices for data center development. The initial 150-day moratorium was due to expire Nov. 5.

The debate reflects concerns about the facilities’ demands on electricity and water, as well as possible noise, pollution and chemical leaks. Data centers are expanding as companies build out computing capacity, including for artificial intelligence.

One proposal that drew attention before the initial pause was Powerhouse Charlotte, a planned five-building development on 122 acres. Advocates estimated it could require 300 to 400 megawatts of electricity, roughly the amount used by 300,000 homes.

Cristopher Scalise, who served on a city task force on data centers, urged council members to extend the pause, saying substantial work remained before the city was ready to move forward. Neighbors have also raised concerns about a proposed east Charlotte data center and whether current policies adequately address potential impacts.