New map reveals extent of data center applications on public lands in the West
A map from the Center for Western Priorities identifies 35 Bureau of Land Management sites in the West associated with proposed data centers or supporting infrastructure, including 15 in Nevada. The Townsite Solar II proposal near Boulder City has drawn opposition over water use, power demand, noise and transparency, while the BLM has vacated its previous approval decision and may restart the process.
The Center for Western Priorities released a map identifying at least 35 applications or sites on Bureau of Land Management land that may support data centers across six Western states. Fifteen of the sites are in Nevada, though limited public information makes it difficult to determine the exact nature of many proposals.
The Townsite Solar II project in Boulder City has become a focal point for debate over data centers on public lands. Opponents, including the Sierra Club and local communities, cite potential water and electricity demands, higher utility costs and generator noise, while proponents point to construction jobs. The BLM has vacated its decision approving the project, according to a Department of the Interior document, but the proposal may return to the approval process.
The Center for Western Priorities criticized the BLM's lack of transparency and called for public input, environmental review and a permitting framework before projects proceed. The article also notes that a bipartisan group of members of Congress questioned Interior Secretary Doug Burgum about public participation in data center proposals on federal lands.