Vermaland, LLC has announced a significant reduction in its proposed La Osa data center complex in Pinal County, Arizona, cutting the number of planned buildings from 59 to 11. This decision follows public backlash, with approximately 60 comments and 50 emails opposing the project presented during a recent Pinal County Board of Supervisors meeting. The board had previously approved zoning for the project in April with a 7-2 vote but has postponed further discussions until August 26.
Vermaland's attorney, Court Rich, stated that the revised project will limit energy demand to 1 gigawatt and will generate its own electricity to address concerns about power consumption. The original proposal included plans for two gas-fired power plants and battery energy storage systems capable of producing up to 3 gigawatts.
The opposition group Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE) has been instrumental in mobilizing community resistance against the development. RAZE's Political Policy Director, Anthony Ramirez, emphasized that the issue transcends political affiliations, highlighting the diverse community turnout at the public hearing.