Bangkok Halts Three Data Center Projects Pending New Safety Rules
Bangkok has suspended three unapproved data center projects while developing new safety regulations, with Governor Chadchart Sittipunt expecting a policy framework within one month that will address environmental, planning, and infrastructu
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced on September 4 that three unapproved data center projects in the capital will be put on hold while the city awaits new regulatory guidelines. Speaking after a policy committee meeting at Government House, he said the new framework will bring greater clarity on definitions and oversight, delivering benefits across five areas: environmental impact, urban planning, building control laws, fuel supply readiness, and water and electricity infrastructure.
Chadchart noted that Bangkok currently has six data center applications under review, ranging from 9 to 23 megawatts in capacity. Three projects have already been approved and are operating, and these will be surveyed intensively to inform future committee decisions. The remaining three unapproved projects will be delayed pending the committee's policy recommendations, which are expected within one month.
For the three already-approved projects, the governor said the city will monitor their safety and risk management standards, and ensure they comply with any new data center regulations that emerge. When asked about the need for urban planning amendments, Chadchart confirmed that Bangkok is preparing a revised master plan and intends to add data center as a distinct building category, as it does not currently exist in the zoning code. Once the committee establishes its policy, the classification can be incorporated into the new plan.
