Las Vegas data center research explores impact of state’s 60+ facilities

Nevada has emerged as one of the top five fastest-growing data center regions globally, currently hosting over 60 facilities, with projections indicating an additional 60 in Southern Nevada within the next decade. This growth is attributed to the state's abundant land, low-cost energy, and an attractive tax environment. However, a comprehensive study conducted by the Desert Research Institute, with scientist Rick Hensel, highlights significant environmental concerns. The research projects that by 2033, the power demand from new data centers could account for over 56% of Nevada's state-wide energy generation. Water consumption is also a critical issue, with 12 data centers currently using the equivalent of 31 golf courses annually. Hensel notes that water usage can vary dramatically based on cooling methods, with air cooling reducing direct water use but increasing electricity consumption. The report also touches on community opposition. It references a protest against a large data center project in Bucks County, Utah, which was ultimately approved, and a similar scene of pushback against a data center in Boulder City, Nevada. Rick Lammers, involved with the Boulder City project, reportedly changed water rules following public opposition, underscoring ongoing concerns from residents who question the environmental impacts and express general reluctance for such developments in their area.