Proposed Northern Colorado data center faces uncertain future following gaps in construction permits
Global AI has been ordered to halt construction of a data center in Weld County, Colorado, due to a lack of proper permits and non-compliance with a recently passed local ordinance. The company faces a public hearing in September as it works to address issues related to zoning, water supply, and noise regulations. The situation highlights broader concerns about data center development in Colorado.
Global AI, an artificial intelligence company, has been issued multiple stop-work orders by Weld County, Colorado, for continuing construction on a new data center without the necessary permits. The company purchased the property last November, which was an established industrial facility with existing site plans and building permits, but its specific permits for data center construction are on a "zone hold" due to non-compliance with a county ordinance passed earlier this year.
The Weld County ordinance stipulates that data centers in unincorporated areas must be on industrial-zoned land, adhere to noise ordinances, and secure adequate water and electricity. Angela Snyder, Weld County Planning Manager, stated that Global AI continued construction despite not meeting these new requirements. Resident Bonnie Jackson expressed hope that the company would face significant consequences for its violations.
Key issues for Global AI include securing a long-term water supplier beyond March 2027, as the county does not provide water directly. While the company estimates minimal water use with a closed-loop system, Colorado State University professor emeritus Melinda Laituri questioned these claims and expressed doubts about the system's ability to eliminate extreme water use. Laituri also voiced concerns about noise pollution's impact on local biodiversity, despite Global AI updating its noise analysis to comply with the ordinance.
While neighboring Larimer County and cities like Broomfield and Denver have enacted moratoriums on data center construction, Weld County has not, citing its pro-business stance. State Sen. Cathy Kipp highlighted the need for statewide regulations to ensure transparency in resource usage and prioritize community and environmental concerns. Global AI's public hearing is scheduled for September 1st at the Weld County Administration Building.