Federal approval renews debate over proposed data center near Boulder City
Federal approval of a right-of-way grant for Townsite Solar Two's data center near Boulder City, Nevada, has reignited local opposition, despite the developer having withdrawn a separate application for city land. Residents and city officials plan to appeal the Bureau of Land Management's decision, citing concerns over the project's impact and the adequacy of the environmental assessment. Separately, Nye County commissioners are considering a ban on data centers in Pahrump.
The debate over data centers in Boulder City, Nevada, continues after the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) approved a right-of-way grant for Townsite Solar Two to build a data center on federally owned land. This approval comes despite Townsite Solar Two having previously withdrawn a separate application to build on city land, acknowledging an upcoming ballot measure, but is now exploring alternative routes for development.
Residents, including Janelle Sorenson and Brynn DeLorimier, have voiced strong opposition to data centers in the El Dorado Valley, citing concerns about their impact. DeLorimier expressed disappointment over the BLM's swift approval, arguing that Townsite Solar's pivot to federal land did not address community concerns. Lisa LaPlante with Boulder City highlighted the city's limited influence over federally owned land.
Concerns also surround the environmental assessment, which residents and city officials feel was streamlined and inappropriately based on photovoltaic and battery energy storage rather than the distinct environmental impacts of data centers. Rick Lammers of Townsite Solar Two stated the company aims for a responsible and sustainable model. An appeal process is available for the amended Right of Way grant, which both residents and the City plan to file.
Meanwhile, in Nye County, Commissioner Ian Bane proposed a ban on new data center developments in Pahrump, citing incompatibility with the area's rural character. Although an initial vote on the proposal did not pass, a subsequent vote is scheduled for August 4th, indicating ongoing legislative consideration.