Ohio EPA Proposes Permit for Data Centers to Discharge Wastewater into State Waterways

The Ohio EPA is considering a general permit that would allow data centers to discharge wastewater into state waterways, provided it does not contain significant volatile organic compounds. The permit aims to streamline the regulatory process for data center development in Ohio.

However, public commenters expressed concerns about potential water quality degradation, arguing the permit could enable pollution. Ohio EPA staff clarified that data centers must treat wastewater to meet stringent water quality standards set by the agency.

Currently, data centers are primarily located in central Ohio and rely on public sewer systems for wastewater management. A new project called 'Project Mila' is proposed on 141 acres in Trenton, Butler County, following a land sale to developer Prologis for $7.7 million. The public comment period for the draft permit is open until January 16, 2026, after which the Ohio EPA will review feedback before finalizing the permit.