Thailand is introducing new environmental rules for data centers, a move that could affect anyone working in the tech sector. The changes show how governments can shape industry standards.

The government said in September it would tighten oversight of data centers, asking developers of nearly 50 under‑construction projects to pause work until new rules are drawn up. Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas emphasized that national resources must not adversely affect the public.

A government data centre board proposed limiting noise at site boundaries to 70 A‑weighted decibels (dBA). The same board also suggested capping nearby temperature increases at one to two degrees Celsius and requiring cooling water to be recirculated and tested before discharge.

The rules require data centres consuming more than 20 megawatts of energy to be placed in industrial zones. They will also be subject to stricter oversight.

Narit Therdsteerasukdi, from Thailand's Board of Investment, said 57 data‑center projects have been approved across the country. He added that 17 are operating, 20 have received construction permits and another 20 are preparing to invest.