Weld County approves permit for what could become Colorado's largest AI data center
The Weld County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a permit for Global AI to build a large data center between Greeley and Windsor, Colorado. This decision followed an 8-hour public meeting with 40 comments expressing concerns about water usage, power capacity, and noise. The data center is planned to operate this year and could become the largest AI data center in the state.
The Weld County Board of Commissioners recently approved a permit for Global AI to construct a 41-acre data center in the former Kodak facility, situated between Greeley and Windsor, Colorado. The decision, which passed with a 5-0 vote, followed an extensive 8-hour public meeting that included approximately 40 public comments. Residents voiced significant concerns regarding the project's potential impacts on water usage, electricity demand, and noise levels.
Commissioner Scott James acknowledged the community's worries. He stated that Poudre Valley REA, the designated power supplier, confirmed its capacity to serve the Global AI facility. Regarding water, James noted that a previously passed code in April addressed water concerns, with Global AI proposing a closed-loop system for its cooling needs. The county has also pledged to closely monitor compliance, particularly concerning noise.
This approved facility could become Colorado's largest AI data center, with Global AI aiming for operation within the current year. The project is expected to create 80 to 120 jobs and will be built in phases, with the county emphasizing its commitment to ongoing oversight of the development.