Google, stepping in for Crusoe, pitches 700-acre data center campus to Laramie County

Google has announced it is the new lead company behind the $17 billion-plus data center project, formerly known as Project Jade and now dubbed Project Tembo, located in Laramie County, Wyoming. The 700-acre campus near U.S. Highway 85, initially slated for Crusoe Energy, will feature four data center buildings, a logistics center, network facilities, and a Google office building.

Eric Murray, Google's land acquisition and development lead, along with other company representatives, presented the project to Laramie County residents. They emphasized a commitment to minimal environmental impact through technologies like a closed-loop cooling system and a plan to replenish 120% of the 20–30 million gallons of water drawn annually from the Lance Formation aquifer. Concerns about backup diesel generators, lighting, and sound were also addressed, with Google pledging to adhere to industry standards and county regulations.

Google will partner with Tallgrass for adjacent power generation facilities, ensuring the data centers do not strain the local Cheyenne energy grid. Related Digital will serve as the lead developer for construction. While Crusoe Energy was previously involved, Google is now the sole owner and operator, with Project Tembo slightly scaled back from Crusoe's original plans. The Laramie County Board of County Commissioners handled the revised site plan administratively due to its reduced scope.

Google is currently seeking a conditional use permit and site plan approval for a new two-story office complex from the Laramie County Planning Commission, with a decision expected from the County Commissioners in the coming weeks. Construction is projected to begin by late 2024, with initial data center operations commencing in late 2028 and full completion by the end of 2031. The project is expected to create 2,500 construction jobs and 250 operational jobs, with Google becoming a significant taxpayer in the county.