Ridgecrest seeks intervener status in state review of proposed Inyokern data center
The City of Ridgecrest is seeking intervener status with the California Energy Commission to actively participate in the state's review of a proposed data center in nearby Inyokern. This move aims to ensure the city has a voice in evaluating the project's community impacts, even as the Inyokern Airport has already voiced opposition.
The City of Ridgecrest, California, is actively pursuing a greater role in the state's review of a proposed data center development slated for nearby Inyokern. During a recent city council meeting, city leaders voted to file for "intervener status" with the California Energy Commission, a designation that would allow Ridgecrest to formally participate in the evaluation process.
City officials clarified that this action does not signify an immediate stance for or against the data center project. Instead, their primary objective is to secure a "seat at the table" to ensure the city's interests and potential community impacts are thoroughly considered as the proposal undergoes state review.
This development follows earlier reports that the Inyokern Airport has already voiced opposition to the proposed data center, citing concerns over its potential effects on the community. The ongoing review and Ridgecrest's move highlight increasing local scrutiny over large-scale data center expansions in the region.