Denver's New Data Center Promises Energy Efficiency and Economic Growth

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the development of a new data center in Denver, emphasizing its potential to significantly improve energy efficiency and contribute to the local economy. The proposed facility is expected to operate at a capacity of 60 megawatts, with the first building set to provide 18 megawatts and two additional buildings planned for 24 megawatts each. This development aims to address the current inefficiencies seen in existing enterprise facilities, which reportedly consume two to three times more power for similar operations.

The meeting highlighted the growing demand for data centers driven by the digital economy, with officials noting that the facility's design prioritizes energy efficiency. The developers aim to minimize energy consumption, ensuring that most of the energy used is directed towards customer operations rather than building maintenance.

Water usage was also a key topic, with the developers explaining that the data center would utilize a closed-loop system for cooling, which is expected to consume approximately 275,000 gallons of water per day at peak capacity. This figure, while significant, is part of a strategy to enhance operational efficiency.

Economic implications of the project were discussed, particularly regarding tax revenue. Officials clarified that while the data center does not generate direct sales tax from retail activities, substantial sales and use tax would arise from construction materials and equipment purchases necessary for the facility's operation. This includes ongoing tax benefits as clients refresh their equipment every five to ten years.

The meeting concluded with a call for further collaboration with local environmental organizations to ensure that the project aligns with Denver's emissions goals. Overall, the discussions underscored the dual focus on energy efficiency and economic growth as the city moves forward with this significant infrastructure project.