Massena Town Board taking no action on proposed 635 MW data center tonight
The Massena Town Board took no action on a proposed 635 MW data center, noting the Town Planning Board is in initial review. The project at the former Alcoa East plant includes three large structures and requires a new electrical substation, raising concerns about power utilization. Local groups are actively opposing the project, and county legislators plan to vote on a resolution to ensure local authority over data center approvals.
The Massena Town Board has announced it will not take action on a proposed 635 MW data center at its latest meeting, despite previous reports. Town officials confirmed that the Town Planning Board is currently in the initial stages of reviewing the proposal, with a hearing scheduled for May 21.
The project, to be located at the former Alcoa East plant, includes plans for three large structures totaling over 1.4 million square feet and would incorporate 316 diesel generators, though NYDIG officials suggest this number could be reduced. The development would also require a new electrical substation, adding 200 MW to the site's existing 200 MW allocation, raising concerns among county officials about the total power consumption. A power purchase agreement is yet to be finalized.
Opposition to the project is vocal, with groups such as the League of Women Voters and Akwesasne Mohawks United for Sovereignty and Heritage (MUSH) actively educating the public and submitting formal letters. Massena Town officials have also addressed misinformation on social media, urging residents to rely on official communication channels.
Further governmental action is anticipated, as St. Lawrence County legislators are expected to vote on a resolution during their June 1 meeting to ensure local rather than state authority over data center approvals, a move officials believe will allow for more direct oversight.