The Reno Planning Commission meeting on February 5, 2025, highlighted growing community concerns over the environmental impact of new data centers in the region. Residents voiced their apprehensions about the increasing demand for energy and water, particularly in light of recent wildfires and climate change.

A significant point of discussion was the approval of two new data centers by the Reno City Council, which many residents believe will exacerbate the already critical issues of power consumption and air quality. Speakers emphasized that typical data centers consume around 50 megawatts of power—enough to supply approximately 40,000 homes—raising questions about the sustainability of energy sources. Critics pointed out that much of this energy would likely come from fossil fuels, including methane gas, rather than renewable sources.

Ruth Flack, a retired nurse and climate advocate, urged the commission to impose a moratorium on new data centers until stricter guidelines are established. She argued that the burden of energy consumption should not fall on local residents, many of whom are already struggling with rising utility costs. Flack and others called for data centers to be required to generate their own renewable energy, leveraging Nevada's abundant solar and geothermal resources.

Bobby Ma, another resident, echoed these sentiments, advocating for the use of reclaimed water and efficient cooling technologies to minimize the environmental impact of data centers. He highlighted the need for regulations that ensure these facilities operate sustainably, rather than relying on traditional power sources that contribute to pollution and climate change.

The meeting also featured concerns about water usage, with residents noting that the demand from data centers could hinder the availability of water for residential development. Nancy Ann Leiter pointed out that the increasing approval of data centers could prevent the construction of much-needed homes in the area.

Jordan Deshield, representing the Reno Sunrise Movement, emphasized the lack of regulation surrounding data centers and their environmental impacts. He argued that while developers may promote sustainability through tree planting, such initiatives could inadvertently harm local ecosystems and exacerbate water scarcity.

As the community grapples with the implications of these developments, the Planning Commission faces pressure to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. The discussions from this meeting reflect a growing awareness among residents about the need for sustainable practices in the face of climate change and resource scarcity. The commission's next steps will be crucial in determining how Reno navigates these challenges while ensuring the well-being of its residents.