Avista confirms it may power a data center
Avista confirmed it is in talks to potentially provide power to a large proposed data center in Eastern Washington, potentially Spokane County. The proposed project could demand up to 30% of Avista's current capacity by 2032, raising public concerns about water and power usage, though Avista suggests it could lower customer costs.
KREM 2 News reported that Avista, a local utility, confirmed it is in discussions to provide power for a new, large-scale data center planned for Eastern Washington. While the exact location remains unconfirmed, it would be within Avista's Washington service territory, with Spokane County identified as a possible site.
Public reaction to the proposed data center has been largely negative, with concerns pouring into the newsroom. Residents expressed opposition, citing worries about water consumption in a drought-prone area and the high power demands. A Gallup poll mentioned in the report indicated widespread opposition to data centers among Americans.
The proposed data center would initially require 125 megawatts in 2029, escalating to 500 megawatts by 2032, representing nearly 30% of Avista's current total capacity of almost 1700 megawatts. Avista stated the data center developer would cover the costs for necessary power grid upgrades. Heather Rosenrotter, Avista's President and CEO, suggested that large load growth from data centers could reduce cost pressure for existing customers by spreading fixed costs across a larger consumption base. The project is also presented with potential benefits for job growth and economic development in the region.