Hardin County debate centers on NextEra battery project and possible data center moratorium
Hardin County officials heard competing views over NextEra Energy’s proposed battery energy storage system near Radcliffe, with opponents arguing it could enable a future data center. A resident presented a proposed two-year data center moratorium, while the county zoning commission has recommended maintaining ordinances that prohibit the BESS; the Board of Supervisors is expected to decide whether to allow it.
NextEra Energy representative Megan Murphy Salyer presented plans to repower the Garden Wind Energy Project and discussed a battery energy storage system proposed near Radcliffe. The Hardin County Zoning Commission voted unanimously against recommending changes to county ordinances that prohibit the BESS, but the final decision rests with the Hardin County Board of Supervisors, which was asked to act before Nov. 18.
Public comments reflected competing views. Iowa Falls Area Development Corp. Executive Director Mark Buschkamp said battery storage could support economic development and reliable power, while Eldora residents Donna Juber and Julie Duhn opposed the project. Juber presented a possible two-year moratorium on data center construction, citing water and electricity concerns, and Duhn argued the BESS was primarily a precursor to a data center. Buschkamp disputed that framing and said battery storage has broader economic and grid benefits.