Officials discuss economic impact of proposed data center in Imperial

The Coalition of Labor, Agriculture and Business (COLAB) recently held an information session in Imperial to discuss a proposed data center project. Project consultant Tom DuBose and consultant Carl Stills, representing Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing, alongside developer Sebastian Rucci, outlined the project's essential requirements and its potential economic impact on the region. DuBose highlighted the need for proper zoning, noting that Imperial County's industrial zone had already been amended to include data centers as an allowed use. He emphasized the project's strategic location near an existing S line capable of delivering the necessary energy, as well as access to natural gas for emergency generators, water, and existing AT&T and Lumens fiber lines for connectivity. Environmental concerns were addressed with a list of studies performed, including health risk, air quality, dust control, and a burrowing owl study. Economically, DuBose projected a net new revenue of $316 million for the county over 30 years once the data center is operational. Carl Stills, a former Imperial Irrigation District (IID) energy manager, assured attendees that even with the 330 MW data center, there would be no negative impacts on IID's transmission system or an uptick in ratepayer costs, as the load would pay for itself. He explained that this initial data center, one of three potential projects in the area, would significantly shift the electric load balance towards the Imperial Valley, transforming it into a major revenue driver for the county and IID. Stills also estimated a four-year timeline to secure generation and two years for construction after permitting.