Inletkeeper opposes Cook Inlet data hub as comment deadline nears
Cook Inletkeeper plans to oppose DeepGreen Cook Inlet SPV LLC’s proposed underwater data center and tidal energy project near Nikiski, citing risks to salmon, endangered beluga whales and commercial fishing. The Kenai Peninsula Borough has intervened in the federal review without taking a position, while public comments on the preliminary permit application are due Nov. 2.
Homer-based conservation organization Cook Inletkeeper plans to file a motion opposing DeepGreen Cook Inlet SPV LLC’s proposed subsea computing project in Upper Cook Inlet near Nikiski. The proposal includes as many as 350 tidal turbines and 66 underwater computing modules with an estimated capacity of 100 megawatts. The project would use seawater for cooling and could discharge heat and potentially pollutants into the inlet.
Cook Inletkeeper and commercial fishing advocates cited potential impacts from underwater noise, heat, marine debris or pollutants, navigation and fish migration. The Alaska Commercial Fisheries Conservation Alliance and the Center for Biological Diversity have also intervened in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission proceeding, raising concerns about fishing operations and endangered Cook Inlet belugas.
The Kenai Peninsula Borough has sought participation in the federal process because of potential effects on residents and businesses, but it has not endorsed or opposed the project. Borough Mayor Peter Micciche has questioned the feasibility of construction in Cook Inlet’s harsh marine conditions, while DeepGreen managing member Louis Wolfson said the preliminary permit would allow a three-year feasibility period for environmental and engineering studies and would not authorize construction. Public comments on the application are due Nov. 2.