Kearney Planning Commission recommends approval of proposed data center
The Kearney Planning Commission has unanimously recommended approval of a conditional use permit for the proposed Project Horizon data center by Starwood Digital Ventures and MARA. The project aims to replace an existing cryptocurrency mining operation at Tech oNE Crossing, bringing significant revenue and adhering to proposed data center regulations for noise and water use. The proposal now advances to the Kearney City Council for a final decision.
The Kearney Planning Commission has unanimously recommended the approval of a conditional use permit for "Project Horizon," a proposed data center development by Starwood Digital Ventures (SDV) and Marathon Digital Holdings (MARA) at Tech oNE Crossing in Kearney, Nebraska. This project is intended to replace an existing cryptocurrency mining operation.
The development plan outlines three phases, with Phase 1 including an office building, a data center building, and enclosed equipment yards. The current crypto mining operation, which has 100 megawatts of capacity, will be decommissioned, and its power capacity will be reused for the initial phase. SDV has pledged to cover any necessary infrastructure upgrades for the additional power demand. The facility will incorporate a closed-loop chilled water system, projected to use 3.6 million gallons of water annually, primarily for landscaping. City officials noted this water usage is significantly lower than some other local amenities. The project will also comply with Kearney's proposed data center regulations, including a maximum average noise level of 55 dBA at the property line, 55-foot acoustic screening, and 100-foot setbacks, with a post-construction sound study required.
Financially, the data center is anticipated to generate substantial revenue. While the existing crypto operation provides about $2 million annually to the City of Kearney through electricity-related revenue, a larger data center could increase this to $11-13 million per year. Additionally, Phase 1 is projected to generate approximately $20 million annually in property taxes for other local entities such as Buffalo County, Kearney Public Schools, Central Community College, and the Central Platte Natural Resources District, as Tech oNE Crossing lies outside city limits. The project is also expected to create about 30 jobs per completed building, focusing on mechanical, electrical, operations, and security roles. The proposal is slated for consideration by the Kearney City Council on September 8.