California Lawmakers Address Health and Energy Concerns Over Proposed Data Center in Imperial County

California legislators are scrutinizing a proposed data center in Imperial County amid concerns about health impacts and energy consumption. The project could exacerbate air quality issues for residents already facing high asthma rates. Lawmakers are exploring legislation to ensure environmental protections and require data centers to provide estimates on water and energy usage. Local opposition is growing, with community organizations calling for a review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), while the proposed center promises economic benefits and job creation.

Published Mar 23, 2026

California legislators are considering health and energy implications of a proposed data center in Imperial County. Concerns include worsened air quality amid rising asthma rates and potential energy strains on local infrastructure.

AI-curated by Theia

The center, planned by Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing, aims to create between 2,500 to 3,500 jobs and generate $28.75 million annually in property tax revenue. However, community groups and residents fear pollution and rising utility costs.

Proposed legislation seeks to prevent exemptions from environmental reviews and require data centers to disclose energy and water usage. Local opposition is mounting, with calls for transparency and accountability regarding environmental impacts.