Avista Considers New Data Center Project in Washington
Avista is considering developing a large data center in its Washington service territory, potentially in Spokane County. The proposal has generated significant public opposition due to concerns about high electricity and water consumption, especially during drought conditions, and potential environmental impacts on the Spokane River. The project requires approval from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission.
The development of a large data center is in the early stages within Avista's Washington service territory, with Spokane County identified as a potential location. This proposal has quickly generated significant public concern and opposition, with a Gallup poll indicating broad American resistance to data centers. Local sentiment gathered by KREM 2 News was overwhelmingly negative, expressing fears about the data center's impact on rural areas.
Avista, the utility considering the project, disclosed that the data center would demand 125 megawatts by 2029, escalating to 500 megawatts by 2032. This represents nearly 30% of Avista's current total capacity of almost 1700 megawatts. Avista claims the data center would fund necessary power infrastructure upgrades and that its presence could reduce utility costs for existing customers by distributing fixed costs across a larger base. However, these assurances have not alleviated community concerns.
Environmental impacts are a major concern, particularly water usage. The Spokane Riverkeepers highlighted that such a facility could consume nearly three times the water of Spokane's five largest reported water users combined. Amid a drought and low snowpack, this raises alarms about long-term water availability. Additionally, there are concerns about increased water temperatures in the Spokane River, which could harm native fish populations, and the discharge of heated water potentially containing PFAS chemicals and heavy metals that are difficult to treat.
The project is not yet finalized, as the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission must provide approval. Residents are encouraged to contact the commission to voice their opinions regarding the proposed data center.