Proposed data center in Haines City highlights town’s water supply issue
A developer, Cielo Digital Infrastructure, is proposing a hyperscale data center in Haines City, Florida, which would require up to 150,000 gallons of potable water daily. City officials are concerned, as Haines City is already exceeding its state-allowed water usage due to rapid population growth. The project's approval is contingent on a Water Use Permit modification and other regulatory reviews, though no formal application has been submitted yet.
Cielo Digital Infrastructure has approached leaders in Haines City, Florida, with a proposal to build a hyperscale data center on 74 acres near State Road 544-East and Marion Road.
This proposed data center would demand up to 150,000 gallons of potable water per day, posing a significant challenge for Haines City. The city is already grappling with a rapid population increase, with more than 8,600 new residents in the past decade, leading to current water usage exceeding state limits. Resident Stephanie Menéndez voiced concerns about the cumulative impact of growth on infrastructure and the environment, particularly regarding water resources.
The city's capacity to supply the necessary water is dependent on the Southwest Florida Water Management District approving a Water Use Permit modification for Haines City. Interim City Manager Loyd Stewart stated that securing this permit would be just one stage in a comprehensive review process, encompassing various development, engineering, utility, environmental, permitting, and regulatory requirements. As of now, the city has not received a formal application for the proposed data center from the developer.