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Florida Opposes First Hyperscale AI Data Center Over Water, Energy Risks
Alex Kelly said the 4.4 million-square-foot project could strain water, energy and transportation systems, and its benefits to the community are unclear.
Florida Commerce Secretary Alex Kelly opposes the proposal for the state's first AI data center in Polk County due to risks to the water supply, economy, and infrastructure.
The data center is proposed on 1,300 acres in Polk County, with projected water usage called 'woefully underestimated' by Alex Kelly and developer Stonebridge's figures considered misrepresented.
Stonebridge reported needing approximately 140,000 gallons of water daily for cooling and about 50,000 gallons for daily operations, but officials believe actual water demand is likely higher.
The project requires permits from the Southwest Florida Water Management District, which requires water usage details in permits and public meeting approval, but the application lacks projected water demand information.