Genover acquires former Dunkirk NRG plant, potential data center site faces proposed state moratorium
Genover has acquired the former NRG plant in Dunkirk, NY, with plans to redevelop it for various industrial purposes, including potentially a data center. These plans could be impacted by a proposed one-year moratorium on new data centers in New York state, which is currently awaiting the governor's signature.
Genover, a Boerne, Texas-based firm specializing in the redevelopment of legacy industrial properties, has acquired the former NRG plant site in Dunkirk, New York. Chief Executive Officer Mark Geise of the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency Board of Directors noted that Genover typically demolishes and cleans up such sites for repurposing into data centers, repowering facilities, or other industrial uses.
While micro-nuclear facilities were previously considered for the site, state Senator George Borrello has organized a "Local Leaders' Nuclear 101 Forum" to inform local officials about advanced nuclear energy. However, any development, including a potential data center, faces uncertainty as the New York state Legislature has proposed a one-year moratorium on new data centers, awaiting Governor Kathy Hochul's signature. This moratorium aims to assess peak electricity needs, environmental impact, and alignment with climate goals.