Butler Township Approves Nebius AI Data Center Expansion
Butler Township supervisors voted to approve an ordinance allowing Nebius AI to expand its data center project at Highridge Industrial Park, despite resident objections regarding water usage and noise. The approval enables Nebius to finalize land purchases and proceed with a multi-phase development, which also included a reduction in the allowable noise level for the facility.
Butler Township supervisors recently approved an ordinance, with a 2-1 vote, to allow artificial intelligence infrastructure company Nebius AI to expand its data center development plan at Highridge Industrial Park in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania. This decision came despite significant objections from residents of Butler Township and neighboring municipalities, who raised concerns about potential water usage and noise generated by the immense facility.
Nebius AI, a Netherlands-based company, confirmed that this expansion was planned from the project's inception. With the ordinance now approved, the company will finalize the purchase of additional parcels from the Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation and will then submit its final expansion plan to the township supervisors and planning commission for approval. Supervisors Chair David Kessler and Kate Staudenmeier voted in favor, while Patrick Coyle opposed.
Supporters of the project, including Supervisor Staudenmeier, emphasized the economic benefits, estimating 1,000 construction jobs and 100-150 high-paying permanent positions, along with substantial tax revenues for Butler Township, Schuylkill County, and the North Schuylkill School District. Construction on the initial two data center buildings is slated to begin in late 2026. In a separate action, the supervisors also approved a reduction in the data center's allowable noise level from 75 to 65 decibels, a standard Nebius officials stated the facility can meet. The company also has an agreement with PPL to supply 1.2 gigawatts of power, assuring local residents that their electric rates will not be affected.
Resident concerns, particularly regarding water supply, were highlighted during a recent open house. Nebius officials, along with SEDCO President Frank Zukas, maintain that the Mount Laurel Reservoir has adequate capacity for the center's approximately 35,000 gallons of daily water consumption (excluding the continuously circulated cooling system water). The Highridge Business Park location was chosen by Nebius due to its enhanced grid and power access, existing infrastructure, and a supportive business environment.