Recent technology and infrastructure developments show a push for energy storage in Utah and growing community resistance to large-scale data centers in Tennessee.
Utah energy storage bids
Garkane Energy Cooperative, Inc. announced in a May 26 announcement that it is seeking proposals for the procurement and installation of two weather-tight battery storage systems. The cooperative stated that it is soliciting bids from multiple sources to ensure quality products are provided in the best interest of its membership.
Nashville data center protests
In Nashville, Tennessee, residents and zoo officials are protesting a proposed 70,000-square-foot data center near the Nashville Zoo. As KSLTV reported on June 10, Georgia-based DC BLOX has filed for a permit in the Grassmere Business Park that may include a second building of over 200,000 square feet and an electrical substation capable of 50 megawatts of power capacity.
Concerns for animals and residents
The proposed facility has drawn criticism from local activists and veterinary experts. Dr. Heather Schwartz, the Nashville Zoo's head veterinarian, testified at a Metro Council meeting that 24/7 mechanical noise, vibrations, and bright lights could disrupt animal well-being. Additionally, Drew Small, leader of the No New Data Centers group, expressed concerns regarding potential health impacts on local families.
Council moratorium and legal appeals
The Nashville Metro Council has passed a temporary moratorium on the approval of data:: center zoning and building permits on its first reading, though the measure requires further approvals. Meanwhile, the Nashville Zoo has filed a legal zoning appeal to overturn previously approved permits for the project.
