Christian County residents seek answers on 1,000 megawatt data center project

Residents of Christian County, Illinois, recently convened for their first opportunity to engage with developer Eagle Rock regarding a proposed $8.8 billion data center campus. The project, slated to require 1,000 megawatts of electricity, sparked significant concerns among attendees, particularly concerning its environmental impact, transparency, and power demands. Ken Lober, a partner with Eagle Rock, explained that the substantial power requirement would be met by a new gas-fired plant in the area, and he assured residents that the data center would not lead to increased utility rates for local customers, as the company would bear all necessary infrastructure costs.

Water usage also emerged as a key concern, with developers projecting approximately 20,000 gallons of water per day, primarily for employee facilities. One local farmer expressed worries that the heat generated by the facility, located directly across from his fields, could negatively affect crop yields. Many residents conveyed frustration over feeling excluded from the early stages of the project's proposal, suggesting a lack of transparency from the developers.

Despite the concerns, Eagle Rock estimates the project would create 500 permanent jobs and generate $85 million in tax revenue for the county. The Christian County economic development group confirmed that the proposal still requires a vote from county officials before any construction can commence. Eagle Rock stated they are in the beginning stages and committed to answering residents' questions honestly, with potential construction not beginning until 2029 or 2030 if approved. There is currently no clear timeline for the Christian County Board's vote.