Locals and activists push back on massive AI data center on NAVWAR site
San Diego residents, activists and city leaders are opposing a proposed 400-megawatt AI data center at the former NAVWAR site north of downtown. Officials plan to advocate for a moratorium on data center permitting, citing concerns about heavy electricity use and its potential effect on already-high utility rates.
Community activists and San Diego leaders are pushing back against a proposed 400-megawatt AI data center at the former Naval Information Warfare Systems Command site along Interstate 5, just north of downtown. The property is federally owned, limiting the city’s direct control, and is associated with Manchester Financial Group, led by San Diegan Douglas Manchester. The site had previously been discussed for a mixed-use development featuring housing, shopping and jobs.
Opponents say the facility could consume significant amounts of electricity and potentially increase costs for ratepayers in a region served by San Diego Gas & Electric, where rates are already among the highest in the continental United States. Manchester Financial Group said its development team has held preliminary informational discussions with energy providers but that no negotiations or agreements are underway. San Diego leaders plan to pursue a moratorium on data center development and permitting, following Poway’s adoption of a similar pause.