Verrus CEO discusses proposed $5.1 billion data center in Salem, Oregon
Verrus is proposing a $5.1 billion data center, "Oakline at Mill Creek," in Salem, Oregon. The project is in early review stages and faces questions regarding its impact on water and electricity. Verrus CEO Nelson Abramson discusses their design aims to minimize environmental strain and be a grid resource.
Verrus CEO Nelson Abramson discussed the proposed $5.1 billion Oakline at Mill Creek data center campus in Salem, Oregon. The project, currently in early review, is a three-building campus and utility substation planned for the Mill Creek Corporate Center. Abramson explained that Salem was chosen due to its appropriate industrial zoning, proximity to population centers, good infrastructure, and a large industrial workforce.
Abramson addressed residents' concerns about water and electricity consumption, stating that Verrus's design aims to be fundamentally different from conventional data centers. He highlighted that the facility would use a closed-loop cooling system, designed to consume 99% less water than traditional data centers, with detailed consumption estimates to be published in a few weeks as part of the site plan submission. Regarding the electric grid, he claimed the data center would be a "resource, not a strain," able to flex its load down during peak demand periods to help alleviate congestion and support the utility grid, a concept explored in published papers with the National Lab of the Rockies.
Salem City Manager Krishna Namburi clarified that the city is currently evaluating the proposal, ensuring both benefits and impacts are thoroughly assessed to align with the community's long-term interests. Abramson urged Salem residents to keep an open mind, emphasizing Verrus's commitment to transparency and mitigating concerns regarding noise and environmental impacts. The formal site plan approval process is expected to begin shortly, with Verrus committed to regularly updating its website with public disclosures.