Custer County Officials Discuss Data Center Impacts

Custer County Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors convened a special joint meeting in Nebraska to understand the potential impacts of data center development. The session featured industry experts like Charlie White from Aurum Capital Ventures, Jonathan Jank from Nebraska Public Power District, and Russ Callan from Lower Loup Natural Resources District.

Discussions centered on public concerns regarding electrical demand, water usage, noise, economic benefits, and infrastructure strain. Charlie White addressed common misconceptions, emphasizing that his company's smaller-scale 5-10 megawatt data centers do not consume millions of gallons of water daily, with many newer systems using minimal to no water, or only during peak summer months. He also highlighted efforts to mitigate noise and environmental impacts, noting that newer water-cooled systems are significantly quieter than older air-cooled ones.

Regarding economic impact, White stated that a typical 10-megawatt site requires 1.5-2 acres and creates 4-5 direct jobs, with additional benefits for local contractors. Power utility representatives, including Jason from Custer Public Power District and Jonathan Jank, explained that data centers often operate during off-peak hours, utilizing existing excess capacity without necessarily increasing residential electricity prices. Jank also noted Nebraska's appeal for development due to low-cost electricity.

Russ Callan discussed water usage and groundwater protections, detailing Nebraska's permitting process for large water users and indicating that typical data center water demands fall well below thresholds for major industrial facilities like ethanol plants. No formal action was taken, but county officials continue to gather information to inform future regulations and development proposals.