On Wednesday evening, Cochise County residents met at Cochise Elementary to learn about a proposed 747‑acre artificial intelligence data‑center complex slated for the area near the Apache Generating Station along U.S. Highway 191. The meeting was organized by SpaceX, the aerospace firm led by Elon Musk, who recently suggested that cooling data centers might be easier in space than on Earth.
Project details and potential benefits
The development, filed under the name Tombstone Resources LLC, would consist of nine data‑center buildings designed for AI operations. According to the special‑use application submitted to the county, the facility could require up to 6,000 megawatts – six gigawatts – of electricity at full build‑out, making it one of the nation’s largest proposed data‑center projects by power demand.
Proponents argue the project could generate thousands of construction jobs and, in the long run, help lower electricity bills for customers by increasing supply capacity. “We need AI centers. It’s the future,” said Herald Satterlee, a meeting attendee who expressed optimism about the economic opportunities the site could bring.
Community concerns
Other residents voiced caution, emphasizing the need for more information before committing to such a large undertaking. “We don’t know enough, therefore just say no,” said Michael Gregory, another participant. Attendees raised questions about water usage, wildlife impact, and noise levels associated with the facility.
The application outlines a dry‑cooling system intended to reduce water consumption, along with additional measures aimed at mitigating environmental effects. Jason Bowling, CEO of Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative, acknowledged the mixed reactions, stating, “There are some that are excited about it and some that are concerned. All of that is valid. I think we just need to let the facts come out and let folks evaluate it for themselves.”
Next steps in the approval process
While SpaceX hosted the informational session, the special‑use application lists Tombstone Resources LLC as the applicant, and the precise relationship between the two entities remains unclear. The county has not yet rendered a decision on the proposal.
The Cochise County Planning and Zoning Commission is scheduled to hold a formal public hearing on December 9, where commissioners will consider the application and public comments. Residents are encouraged to attend the hearing to voice their perspectives and review the detailed plans, including the site map that shows the projected footprint of the nine buildings.
What residents can do
Community members who want more information can review the application documents available through the county’s planning department or visit the project’s online portal linked in the meeting materials. Engaging with local elected officials, such as county commissioners and the planning commission, provides an additional avenue for input.
As the discussion moves forward, the balance between potential economic growth and environmental stewardship will remain a central theme for Cochise County voters and stakeholders.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
