Balico LLC has proposed a revised data center campus development in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. The updated plans involve a scaled-back project from the original proposal, which was rejected last year. The company aims to build a campus on 700 acres of land, using 13 parcels, situated off Mill Creek Road. This new scheme also includes the construction of a natural gas power plant, providing critical energy to the data centers.
What Does the Proposal Involve?
The revised project seeks to rezone the current land from residential suburban and agricultural zoning to a heavy-use industrial district. This rezoning would facilitate the construction of the data center campus and the associated natural gas power infrastructure. Initially, the data centers would be powered by mobile gas turbines generating 300MW, with a permanent power installation to follow in the later phases. The company plans to lease these facilities to hyperscale tenants.
Environmental and Community Concerns Raised
At a recent Pittsylvania County Planning Commission meeting, residents voiced significant opposition to the project. Over 30 speakers participated, many of whom were concerned about the project’s potential impact on the environment and local community. Some protesters displayed signs that read “no power plant, no data centers in rural neighborhoods.”
The primary concerns centered around the environmental impact, including the strain on local water resources and potential destruction of the area’s rural character. Barry Creasy, a local resident, expressed the fear that the beauty and tranquility of the area would be irreparably harmed by such a large-scale industrial development. He also mentioned the social impact, stating, “This project has already destroyed untold relationships in this area.”
The Financial Case for the Project
Despite the concerns raised, Balico representatives emphasized the financial and economic benefits of the proposed development. Steven Gould, a spokesperson for Balico, underscored the potential job creation that would go beyond construction and technology roles, benefiting the broader community. Balico estimates the total cost of the project at $8.86 billion, which could generate approximately $100 million in annual tax revenue for the county.
Balico’s Commitment to Community Engagement
Balico remains steadfast in its commitment to working with the local community. The company has pledged to fund a new fire station and other community projects as part of the development. However, some members of the Planning Commission expressed concerns that the company had only presented these proposals on the day of the meeting, leaving little time for review.
Irfan Ali, CEO of Balico, stated, “Our first phase will be 300MW and we want to work with the community to show the benefits this development can deliver.” He emphasized that the goal is to minimize the project’s impact on surrounding areas while demonstrating the positive outcomes for the region.
Key Reasons for Choosing the Site
The chosen location for the data center campus is strategically positioned near the Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP), which supplies natural gas from the Marcellus and Utica shale formations. Additionally, the site benefits from proximity to several fiber-optic routes, which will be critical for powering the data centers. These logistical advantages play a significant role in Balico’s decision to move forward with this site.
Upcoming Decision on the Proposal
The next stage for the project involves a decision by the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors, which will hold a meeting on February 18 to make the final determination. The decision will likely hinge on the resolution of community concerns, particularly regarding environmental impacts and the long-term benefits of the project.
FAQ
1. What is the proposed size of the data center campus in Pittsylvania County?
The revised proposal covers 700 acres, consisting of 13 parcels of land in Pittsylvania County.
2. What are the main concerns voiced by local residents?
Residents have raised concerns about the environmental impact, including strain on local water resources, and the disruption to the rural character of the area.
3. What is the economic potential of the project?
Balico estimates the total cost at $8.86 billion, which could generate $100 million in annual tax revenue for Pittsylvania County.
4. How will the data center be powered?
Initially, the data center campus will be powered by mobile gas turbines generating 300MW, with a permanent power installation planned for later phases.
5. What is the timeline for a decision on the project?
The Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors will make a final decision on the project on February 18, 2025.
