Van Wert confirms $10 billion data center
QTS Data Centers has announced plans for a $10 billion, 900-acre data center in Van Wert, Ohio, following approval from the Van Wert City Council. The project, which supporters say will create jobs and economic growth, has faced opposition due to environmental concerns like water usage, noise, and light pollution. QTS stated it will fund all necessary energy infrastructure improvements and use a closed-loop cooling system that does not consume water.
QTS Data Centers has officially announced plans for a massive $10 billion, 900-acre data center campus in Van Wert, Ohio. The announcement comes three weeks after the Van Wert City Council approved the project, which is expected to bring high-paying jobs and stimulate economic growth in Northwest Ohio.
The project, however, has encountered significant community discussion, with opponents raising concerns about potential environmental impacts, including decreased water levels, noise pollution, and light pollution. Van Wert Mayor Kenneth J. Markward expressed his pleasure at welcoming QTS, noting that the city has been waiting nearly two decades for an end-user for the mega-site and anticipates the project will strengthen the local tax base.
In response to environmental concerns, QTS stated that its data center campus will utilize a closed-loop cooling system that eliminates water consumption for cooling once operational. Additionally, the company committed to fully funding all necessary energy infrastructure improvements to support the campus, ensuring no cost impact to existing customers. American Electric Power, through its subsidiary Indiana Michigan Power, will be the electricity supplier for the facility.
QTS and the City of Van Wert plan to host a community event on June 11 at the Vantage Career Center, providing residents an opportunity to learn more about the project, ask questions, and share their perspectives.