Lyon County Planning Commission approves Monarch Data Center
The Lyon County Planning Commission voted 4-3 to advance the proposed Monarch Data Center project, moving it closer to approval despite significant community opposition. The project, led by Copia, requires 1,000 megawatts of power and 800 acre-feet of water, and faces additional hurdles including a vote by the Lyon County Commissioners.
The Lyon County Planning Commission voted 4-3 on July 14 to advance the Monarch Data Center project, despite strong opposition from over 200 constituents who attended the hearing in person and via Zoom. Planning Commissioners Wendy Loomis, Michael Irvin, and Audrey Allan voted against the motion.
Attendees included union workers, property owners, Paiute tribal members, and environmental activists. Scott Lommori spoke in favor of the project, challenging opponents by highlighting their reliance on data centers. Tribal member John Dini stated that the project has not consulted with the Paiute people, calling it a requirement and expressing frustration that their voices were not being heard.
The Monarch Data Center is projected to require 1,000 megawatts of power and 800 acre-feet of water. Copia, the company behind the project, stated it will not seek tax abatements and anticipates generating $25 billion in revenue for the county over 25 years.
The project still faces additional hurdles, with the Lyon County Commissioners scheduled to address the matter at their meeting on August 6. A community workshop on data centers is also slated for August 3.