Nobles County residents pushing back on proposed data center

Residents in Nobles County, Minnesota, are vocalizing strong opposition to a proposed data center project by Geronimo Power, planned to be located north of Worthington and east of Reading. The project requires a zoning ordinance change, which was discussed at a recent public hearing where it failed to gain approval from the county commissioners who will vote again next week. Key concerns among residents, including Rod Burkard and Malory Fritz, revolve around the data center's potential impact on the local power grid, despite Geronimo Power's assurances that the 400 megawatts needed would not affect electric rates. Critics argue that even with existing solar and wind projects, the data center's anticipated energy consumption, potentially reaching 1,000 megawatts, would strain the grid. Water usage is another major issue, with residents doubting the efficacy of a proposed "closed-loop system" and expressing fears of groundwater depletion and the environmental hazards of treated water leakage. Concerns about noise, brightness, and air pollution were also raised. Some residents have erected protest signs, and Rod Sankey suggested a 12-month moratorium for more thorough consideration. Geronimo Power's chief development officer, David Reamer, maintained that the region has adequate power supply for "hyperspace data centers" and affirmed efforts toward transparency. However, opponents expressed frustration over a lack of concrete answers from the company, noting that project plans have frequently changed. Currently, a feasibility study is underway with Lincoln Pipestone Rural Water, and an environmental review process is open for public comment until April 16th. Despite some public comment in favor of the zoning change, the lack of approval indicates ongoing challenges for the data center project.