Nye County residents push back on proposed Pahrump data center at meeting

Residents of Pahrump, Nevada, in Nye County, are actively opposing a proposed data center campus, voicing concerns at a recent Nye County Commission meeting even though the project was not officially on the agenda. Many residents, including Doug Blackstock, expressed worries about the facility's substantial water and electricity consumption in a desert environment, suggesting alternative locations.

Developer Sean D'allesandro, representing the proposed "man's technology campus" on 900 acres off State Route 160, addressed these public concerns. He stated that the project is designed for high sustainability, claiming it would use significantly less water than a residential community of comparable size. D'allesandro also clarified that the data center would not impact local electricity rates, as it plans to pay for all transmission upgrades and purchase power directly from generating sources, providing revenue to the Utility Valley Electric Association.

Additionally, D'allesandro emphasized the substantial economic benefits of the $18.4 billion campus. He projected 1,600 construction jobs over five years, followed by 380 permanent positions, and a new recurring annual revenue stream for Nye County through personal and real property taxes. These funds, he noted, could support public services like hiring more teachers and police officers.

The Nye County commissioners acknowledged the varied information circulating about data centers—some current, some outdated, and some myth. They have committed to holding a public forum to listen to all perspectives and gather factual information before making any decisions. The developer is also planning an open house to engage with the community.