NEVADA — Today, a federal administrative judge paused the construction of a data center in Boulder City in what would have been the first data center approved on U.S. public lands. The judge found that the Bureau of Land Management wrongly treated the data center project as “substantially the same” as an existing solar farm permit, despite the projects having significant differences in environmental impact.
“This is what happens when the Trump administration thinks no one is watching: backroom deals, public input ignored, and facts get twisted. We are glad a federal judge stepped in to set the record straight,” said Kristee Watson, Executive Director for the Nevada Conservation League. “Public lands that were once set aside to lower our energy costs were sneakily handed over for data centers that spike our bills and further deplete a water supply we cannot afford to lose. Nevadans are the ones left competing with corporations for the very resources our own households depend on, leaving us to foot the bill either way — a story unfolding across the country under this administration.”
Watson continued, “Today’s decision is a win for Boulder City and those who refused to stay quiet. It’s proof that we can beat back corruption and ensure people who actually live here have a say in what happens with our public lands. We’re not done watching to make sure this process is done right.”
While Nevada has been recognized as one of the fastest-growing data center markets in the country, public opposition to data centers is also booming. A new poll from Embold Research found that 75% of Americans now oppose data center development in their area, with more than six in ten saying their opposition is strong.
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The Nevada Conservation League is the independent voice of Nevada’s Conservation Community. We work to maintain and enhance the natural character of Nevada and the quality of life for Nevadans through effective advocacy, the election of pro-conservation candidates, and building collaboration.