Massive new data centers in Seattle? Not a good idea

Seattle City Light reports that three companies—Prologis, Equinix, and Sabey—are exploring four sites for large-scale data centers within the utility’s service area. These proposed facilities range from 54 to 120 megawatts, with a combined capacity of 317 megawatts, equivalent to powering 200,000 to 300,000 homes. This development has sparked significant public concern, with overwhelming opposition evidenced by 54,000 letters sent to city council members. Critics highlight the region’s existing water scarcity and energy challenges, arguing that such massive energy and water demands are unsustainable. In response to the public outcry, Mayor Katie Wilson stated that she is collaborating with Seattle City Light, the Seattle City Council, and other stakeholders to develop long-term policy solutions. These efforts include exploring the implementation of a moratorium on new data center developments. The article emphasizes the substantial space and resources required by these proposed centers, which are considerably larger than existing data centers in Seattle, and urges city officials to utilize all available permitting and policy tools to manage future projects.