Coachella kills massive data center project after resident backlash and considers future ban for similar ‘tech campuses’
The City of Coachella has imposed a 45-day temporary ban on data center developments and unanimously voted to terminate its agreement with Stronghold Power, the company behind a previously approved project. This decision follows months of public outcry and resident protests citing environmental concerns and higher electricity rates. The City of Indio also established a similar moratorium.
The City of Coachella has reversed course on a previously approved data center project, moving to ban such developments and terminating its agreement with Stronghold Power due to significant public opposition. The city council imposed a 45-day temporary ban on data center developments on Thursday and unanimously voted to end the agreement for the "Coachella Valley Technology Campus," which was initially approved in February and planned to span up to 450 acres.
Residents of Coachella have been protesting for months, raising concerns about environmental impacts and potential increases in electricity rates. Hundreds gathered before the council meeting, chanting "No Data Centers!" Resident James Rodriguez expressed excitement that the moratorium is now in place and the city is considering a permanent ban.
Stronghold Power Systems voiced disappointment over the city council's decision, stating their project was designed to provide substantial benefits with leading-edge environmental protections. Adding to the trend, the City of Indio also unanimously decided to establish a moratorium on data center developments.
The broader movement against data centers is not confined to the Coachella Valley; Monterey Park voters recently approved a ballot measure permanently prohibiting new data center development within its city limits, marking it as the first city in the nation to enact such a ban via direct public vote. The Coachella City Council plans to reconvene in July to discuss further actions regarding a permanent ban.