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St. Louis officials proposed new rules for data center development, including size restrictions of 500,000 square feet or smaller and power consumption between 5 to 75 megawatts. Data centers must be at least 300 feet from schools, faith buildings, and public parks.

The framework mandates noise pollution limits, active ground floors for pedestrian engagement, and closed-loop water-reducing cooling systems. Standard data centers are required to use 50% renewable energy within five years, while large-load centers must achieve 100% renewable energy, including 75% from utility programs. Public feedback is being sought, with a hearing scheduled for Feb. 11.