Large data center proposed near Casper

Prometheus Hyperscale is proposing a large liquid-cooled data center near Casper, Wyoming, with a 1.5-gigawatt capacity and an initial minimum investment of $500 million. The facility, aiming to be operational by 2028, will locate its data halls in Converse County and its workforce hub and power generation facilities in Natrona County. Founder Trenton Thornock highlighted the project's use of natural gas reciprocating engines, supplied by Austrian manufacturer Jenbacher, due to initial limitations of Rocky Mountain Power's grid capacity. He also detailed a proprietary closed-loop liquid cooling technology, which he claims minimizes water consumption after an initial drawdown. The project involves partnerships with direct air capture firm Spiritus and Casper Carbon Capture. Casper Carbon Capture's Class VI permit application to the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ) for permanent carbon dioxide storage is currently under review after being deemed incomplete. Environmental advocates, including John Burrows of the Wyoming Outdoor Council, have expressed concerns regarding the project's reliance on natural gas and its cumulative air quality and emissions impacts, as well as the transparency of cooling system water usage. Local government entities are actively engaged; the Converse County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to fast-track industrial development by setting standards for industrial park designations and enabling siting exemptions. Natrona County, however, will rely on its existing 2022 Zoning Resolution. Prometheus Hyperscale is also committed to negotiating Community Benefit Agreements with city and county officials to fund local infrastructure and mitigate potential