De Soto neighbors raise concerns over third data center near Panasonic Plant
Residents in De Soto, Kansas, are expressing significant concerns over a proposed third data center near the Panasonic Plant and former Sunflower Ammunition Plant. Neighbors are raising questions about utility usage, water consumption, and potential impacts on traffic and home values. Digital Realty and Astra Enterprise are involved in the project, which will undergo review by the city's planning commission in August.
Residents in De Soto, Kansas, are voicing strong concerns regarding a proposed third large data center slated for construction near the former Sunflower Ammunition Plant and the existing Panasonic Plant.
According to Isabella Laon reporting for KSHB 41, neighbors are asking "difficult questions" about the potential impact of this new facility, particularly focusing on utility and water usage. Sarah Vandeusen, a local resident, indicated that there is a "brokenness" in the area due to these developments, despite her engagement with the involved companies, Digital Realty and Astra Enterprise.
Digital Realty is reportedly planning a 300,000 square foot data center with a flexible, technology-agnostic design aimed at supporting the high-tech sector. The Astra Enterprise project has committed to funding a new wastewater treatment plant. However, the proposed data center is projected to use up to 300,000 gallons of water per day and, while not expected to strain the Evergy power grid on its own, its cumulative impact with Panasonic and other data centers is a concern. Residents are also worried about increased traffic and potential depreciation of home values.
The site plan for Digital Realty's data center is scheduled for review by the De Soto Planning Commission in August.