Lyon County residents voice concerns over data centers at BESS meeting
Lyon County residents raised concerns about water use, noise, wastewater impacts, job creation and community benefits during a county meeting on potential data center and battery energy storage regulations. The county has imposed a moratorium on the developments while officials research possible safeguards, with the moratorium expected to expire in January.
Lyon County residents voiced concerns at a Nov. 5 informational meeting about the potential effects of data centers and battery energy storage systems, including heavy water consumption, wastewater contamination, noise, low-frequency vibrations and limited permanent employment. Residents questioned whether local water supplies, rural water districts, wastewater plants and emergency services could support large facilities.
Sam Seeley, the county’s planning, zoning and floodplain management director, said officials are studying data center size, energy and water demand, noise, environmental conditions and fire risks before approving development. The county has issued a moratorium on data centers and some battery storage projects, which is expected to expire in January, while additional public meetings are scheduled for November and December.