Developers push massive data center complex in DeSoto County amid backlash
DCIP Group is proposing a massive AI data center complex in DeSoto County, Florida, planning to use on-site natural gas power generation. County commissioners have approved the rezoning for an initial 34-acre parcel, viewing it as a significant economic boost. However, local residents are voicing strong opposition due to concerns over noise, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Developers with DCIP Group are actively pushing a proposal for an expansive artificial intelligence data center complex in DeSoto County, Florida, despite growing backlash from local residents. The project, which DCIP Group CEO Jon Brown and chairman Wilson Trilha indicate could eventually span 1,300 acres and demand up to 4,000 megawatts of power, is touted by county commissioners like Elton Langford as a crucial economic stimulus that could significantly increase the tax base.
In March, DeSoto County commissioners voted to rezone 34 acres of land on a decommissioned power plant to allow DCIP Group to begin construction, with plans to use natural gas from the Florida Gas Transmission Pipeline for on-site power generation. This strategy is presented by DCIP Group as a way to avoid straining the local power grid and mitigate community conflict. However, residents, including fourth-generation Floridian Eugene Turner and Arcadia resident Sarah Hollenhorst, express deep concerns about the potential environmental impacts, noise pollution from cooling fans, and water usage, even with the company's proposed closed-loop cooling system and use of reclaimed water. Carol Mahler and Donna Ruby specifically highlighted worries about greenhouse gas emissions and constant droning noise, citing experiences near other data centers.
The project reflects a broader industry trend towards hyperscale data centers for AI, which require immense energy. While a Florida House bill initially sought to create development hurdles near schools or residences, the version that passed, SB 484, removed these provisions, a move supported by DCIP Group. The company is now seeking to rezone additional parcels for expansion, with Commissioner Langford emphasizing the urgency of moving quickly to secure the development.