Seeing ‘economic opportunity’ in data centers, Weld County readies rules as companies come knocking

Weld County, Colorado, is actively preparing to update its land-use code to manage future data center developments, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental concerns. Planning director David Eisenbraun confirmed multiple inquiries from companies interested in building facilities in the rural county. Commissioner Kevin Ross views data centers as a positive economic opportunity, providing property tax revenue for the fast-growing area. The proposed code amendments would allow data centers in industrially zoned areas via administrative review and in agriculturally zoned areas with commissioner approval. This comes after Global AI purchased a 438-acre campus near Windsor for a potential data center conversion, though Weld County has not yet received an application. The local action in Weld County aligns with broader state and regional discussions. The Colorado General Assembly is considering two bills to incentivize water and power efficiency or require renewable energy sourcing for data centers. Meanwhile, other local governments are also addressing the issue; Larimer County recently extended a moratorium on new data center applications, and Denver is considering a temporary halt to review regulations. Logan County has already adopted its own rules. Key concerns revolve around the significant electricity and water demands of data centers, particularly in a drought-prone region. Weld County's proposed rules aim to ensure developers secure adequate power and water supplies. Sean Chambers, director of Greeley Water Utilities, stated the city has ample water but emphasized smart usage, while Sam Taggart of Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association highlighted the utility's "growth pays for growth" policy to protect existing ratepayers. The Weld County commissioners are scheduled to vote on the code changes on April 6.