Pittsburg County Committee Approves $50 Billion Data Center Development Proposal
A Pittsburg County Review Committee has endorsed tax increment finance districts for a proposed $50 billion data center in Oklahoma. This initiative aims to attract significant investment and create local jobs amidst rising concerns over utility costs and environmental impact.
The Pittsburg County Review Committee has recommended tax increment finance (TIF) districts for a $50 billion data center to be developed by IREN on 2,000 acres near Kiowa, Oklahoma. Construction is set to begin in 2027, with the project divided into two phases, each costing $25 billion and aiming for 1.2 gigawatts of operating capacity.
The project is expected to create only 40 permanent jobs per phase but will generate substantial economic benefits through construction wages and tax revenue. Annual property tax revenues from the project are projected to reach $20 million during Phase 1, with Kiowa Public Schools set to receive nearly $11 million in the first year.
Additionally, new legislation mandates that large-load users, including data centers, cover their utility costs, addressing concerns from local residents about rising energy prices. The TIF plan is pending approval from the Pittsburg County Board of Commissioners.
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