California fairgrounds consider 'edge' data center proposals amid statewide opposition
Global Stack is proposing small "edge" data centers at fairgrounds across California. While many locations have seen strong public opposition, a recent meeting for a proposed data center in Perris saw no protests, surprising officials. The project, which includes parking structures and emergency response features, is still in early stages and faces broader scrutiny regarding its financial stability and potential conflicts of interest.
Global Stack, a newly founded infrastructure development company, is proposing to establish a network of smaller "edge" data centers across numerous fairgrounds throughout California. These facilities, often incorporating helipads and substantial parking, are being marketed as an "emergency response system" providing "blackout-proof operations" and a consistent revenue stream for financially strained state fairgrounds.
Despite a growing backlash against data centers in California, which has resulted in outright bans in cities like Monterey Park and Coachella and temporary moratoriums in other towns, a recent meeting for a Global Stack proposal in Perris, Riverside County, surprisingly saw no public opposition. This contrasted sharply with other fair board meetings this summer, where similar Global Stack proposals drew as many as 100 protesters. While Tulare, Kings County, and Antelope Valley Fairgrounds have signed nonbinding memorandums of understanding (MOUs) for the projects, other entities like Calistoga, Solano County, and Sonoma County have declined to move forward due to public pushback.
Concerns persist regarding the environmental impact of even these smaller 8-10 MW data centers, particularly concerning water usage and potential strain on electricity grids, as highlighted by UC Riverside associate professor Shaolei Ren. Additionally, questions have been raised about Global Stack's financial viability and a potential conflict of interest involving a California Department of Food and Agriculture official who facilitated company introductions. Despite the initial agreement and lack of local opposition in Perris, the proposal is explicitly noted to be far from an approved project, requiring further validation from the company.