Developers outline plans for proposed Wapakoneta data center
The project is still in its early stages, with questions remaining about its impact on the community.
WAPAKONETA, Ohio (WLIO) - The Wapakoneta Area Economic Development Council heard from developers behind a proposed data center in the city during its annual meeting. The project is still in its early stages, with questions remaining about its impact on the community.
City officials have been in preliminary discussions with Colocation Technology Services (CTS) about building a 30-acre, 40-megawatt data center in Wapakoneta’s industrial park. The project, called “Project Apollo,” is much smaller than some of the larger data center developments proposed elsewhere in Ohio. But with water use, electricity demand and noise among the concerns surrounding these projects, developers say they’re working to address those issues.
“It’s the similar concerns we’re hearing all around the country, and that’s water usage. We address that by using a closed-loop system. Think of your radiator in your car. It’s the exact same technology, just circulating glycol through the computer campus to cool the server. Water usage is similar, probably to a medium-sized hotel,” said Greg Pettine, CTS founder.
A study with AEP to determine whether the grid can support the project is still underway.
The developers also say they are not seeking tax abatements or financial assistance from the city.
If approved, the project could bring about 30 full-time technician jobs and up to 500 tradespeople during an estimated 18-month construction period.
City officials say they’re still weighing the potential economic benefits, along with community concerns.
“We’re not going to sign an NDA. We’re going to be transparent with the citizens and make sure that it’s right for everybody. They’ve (CTS) been a great partner so far, and we’re looking forward to seeing how this moves forward,” said Dan Lee, mayor of Wapakoneta.
Lee says the developers will hold webinars and in-person public meetings to answer questions and hear residents’ concerns.
After that, the proposal would go before City Council for a conditional use decision.
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