Data centers ‘will be a big issue’ for CA High-Speed Rail. Officials debating idea
The California High-Speed Rail Authority is considering allowing data centers to lease land and power sources along its future corridor to generate revenue. However, board members and Central Valley residents are raising concerns about data centers' high water and energy consumption, as well as their potential environmental impact. Officials are calling for ample public discussions before any deals are finalized.
The California High-Speed Rail Authority is exploring the option of leasing land and energy resources from its future train corridor to data centers to help fund the project, as state law mandates the rail operate without subsidies. This potential strategy involves working with private investors to develop the corridor and a utility-grade power generation system, which could then be commercialized for data center use.
However, this idea faces significant caution from rail authority board members, including Henry Perea of Fresno and Jason Elliott. They highlighted the controversial nature of data centers, citing their massive water and energy consumption, potential for increased local temperatures, noise pollution, and higher energy rates for residents. Board members stressed the need for extensive public discussions before any deal incorporating data centers is finalized, with Perea specifically calling for workshops to educate the community.
Public opposition is already evident, with Central Valley residents and environmental scientists expressing concerns. Norma Cardona of Merced, during a board meeting, warned against letting "the language of opportunity overshadow the environmental burden." A recent Gallup survey indicated that 70% of Americans oppose data center construction in their communities, reflecting the sentiment echoed in public comments.