Deep Green withdraws rezoning request for data center. What we know

Deep Green, a United Kingdom-based company, has officially withdrawn its conditional rezoning request for a proposed $120 million, 25,000-square-foot data center in downtown Lansing, Michigan. The withdrawal was announced by Lansing City Council President Peter Spadafore just hours before the council was scheduled to vote on the matter on April 6. The project, which had been supported by the Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL), Mayor Andy Schor's administration, and some business leaders, faced months of strong opposition from local residents. Opponents raised concerns about environmental impacts, a perceived lack of transparency from BWL regarding the data center's power supply—including the proposed use of natural gas fuel cells for two-thirds of the 24-megawatt facility's power—and the overall suitability of a data center in the downtown area. Council member Ryan Kost indicated that Deep Green likely withdrew due to insufficient votes for approval. Deep Green CEO Mark Lee stated the company remains committed to building data centers in Michigan and aims to develop facilities that reuse waste heat for community benefit. BWL General Manager Dick Peffley expressed continued interest in supporting regional economic development. Mayor Andy Schor acknowledged both the potential economic benefits and public concerns, challenging those who advocated for housing on the proposed site to come forward with their own development proposals.