Project announcement sparks data center debate
Project River, an $11.3 billion industrial campus in Bradley County, Tennessee, is sparking debate over its potential data center component, even without a confirmed commitment. The project, which includes a self-sufficient power plant and water recycling, faces zoning hurdles and local regulations. Statewide, data center growth continues to generate discussion, leading to moratoriums, lawsuits, and new energy-related policies.
An $11.3 billion industrial campus, dubbed Project River, in Bradley County, southeast Tennessee, has ignited a debate about data center development, despite no data center having officially committed to the site. The 850-acre private development, spearheaded by Wright Brothers Construction, proposes a power plant utilizing biomass and natural gas to generate up to 1,500 megawatts, with backup from the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Property owner Steve Wright emphasized that the project would produce its own power and recycle water on-site, aiming to revitalize the local forestry industry without increasing utility bills for residents.
Wright Brothers Construction projects the creation of 2,600 jobs, including positions in forestry, biomass processing, data centers, and power generation, along with significant tax revenue for Cleveland and Bradley County. Groundbreaking for Project River is anticipated in late 2027. However, the company is still in early stages, with a pending application to annex the land into the City of Cleveland. Currently, the site is in Bradley County, which recently enacted data center regulations banning facilities within 3,000 feet of residences, schools, or churches.
Bradley County Mayor Gary Davis acknowledged resident concerns but noted the project's distinct approach compared to traditional data centers, highlighting potential benefits like jobs and investment if the proposal's performance claims are verified. Across Tennessee, communities are grappling with the influx of data centers. St. Joseph's city council voted to ban data centers outright, while the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County imposed a temporary moratorium after DC BLOX announced a facility there. DC BLOX has since sued the Metro government, alleging a targeted attack and refusal to process permits.
State lawmakers have also responded, passing House Bill 1847, which mandates data centers using over 50 megawatts to cover their own electricity costs. Additionally, the TVA board approved a special rate for data centers, approximately 10% higher than their standard rate, to ensure that the growing electricity demands of AI and advanced industries do not burden other customers, according to TVA Chair Mitch Graves.