Data centers replace fruit orchards in changing Central WA

Malaga, Chelan County, Washington, is experiencing a significant shift in its economy as data centers replace traditional fruit orchards. Sabey, a Tukwila-based company, acquired 80 acres of cherry orchard land last year for a planned data center campus. Microsoft is also expanding its data center presence in Chelan County, following similar developments in nearby Grant and Douglas counties. The transition is met with mixed reactions from local orchardists and residents. Some, like Dan Richmond and Dillon Luebber, lament the loss of agricultural land, the disruption to the quiet town, increased traffic, and the change from natural views to large concrete structures. Luebber also reports receiving numerous calls from developers interested in buying his land, indicating rising competition for space. However, others, like Chelan County Commissioner Kevin Overbay, view the data centers as an economic lifeline, providing family-wage jobs and significant property tax revenue, arguing that the agricultural sector was already declining. Microsoft, for its part, is contributing to the local community, including a $1.5 million donation to renovate the Malaga fire station and over $51 million for water infrastructure improvements. The article also touches on electricity concerns, noting that Microsoft and the local utility agreed to new terms to address these issues. Al Mathews, a local winery owner, believes the technology industry can coexist with agriculture, especially with assurances that data centers will bring their own power infrastructure and rates. Mathews is also optimistic about Microsoft's deal with Helion, a company aiming to build a fusion power plant in Malaga. Water usage remains a primary concern for residents and county officials, despite Microsoft's investments in new wells and water lines.