A data center is a large industrial facility that houses thousands to hundreds of thousands of computer servers. These servers store, process, and transmit digital information used by cloud computing, artificial intelligence, financial systems, streaming platforms, social media, and many other internet services. Because these systems must operate continuously, data centers run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To support this constant operation, they require large electrical systems, cooling equipment, backup generators, and specialized network infrastructure.

Technology companies and developers are rapidly expanding data center infrastructure across the United States to support growing demand for cloud services and artificial intelligence. Developers often target areas with access to high-capacity electrical transmission lines, fiber optic networks, and large parcels of land. Industrial zones in the San Gabriel Valley are being considered for these facilities, but the impacts of large infrastructure projects can extend beyond city boundaries and affect neighboring communities.

Data centers are among the most energy-intensive types of buildings. A single large facility can consume tens or even hundreds of megawatts of electricity, which can be comparable to the electricity use of tens of thousands of homes. This demand places significant strain on local and regional power grids. Utilities may need to upgrade substations, transmission lines, and other infrastructure to support these facilities. In some cases, increased demand can contribute to higher electricity costs for residents and businesses.

For example, the proposed data center project at 1977 Saturn in Monterey Park would use up to 3 times the amount of electricity of the entire city.

Yes. Many data centers use water as part of their cooling systems to prevent servers from overheating. Cooling towers and other systems can require large quantities of water, particularly in warmer climates. Large facilities may use millions of gallons of water annually. In California, where drought and water shortages are recurring concerns, the water demand from industrial facilities like data centers raises important questions about long-term sustainability and resource allocation.

Although data centers represent major capital investments, they typically generate relatively few long-term jobs once construction is complete. Most employment opportunities occur during the construction phase. After a facility is operational, staffing needs are limited and may include a small number of technicians, engineers, security staff, and maintenance personnel. Compared to other types of development that generate sustained local employment, data centers often provide limited workforce benefits relative to the scale of their resource consumption.

For example, the 1977 Saturn data center project in Monterey Park is close to 250,000 square feet yet they expect only 26 full time staff.

Yes. Many data centers rely on backup diesel generators to maintain operations during power outages. These generators can contribute to air pollution when tested or used. Some projects also include large battery energy storage systems, which can introduce fire risks if not properly managed. In addition, cooling systems and industrial equipment can generate constant noise. These factors can raise concerns about environmental quality, public health, and safety in surrounding communities.

Residents living near large data centers may experience several impacts. These can include continuous mechanical noise from cooling equipment, large industrial buildings that change neighborhood character, and increased demand on local utilities. The scale of these facilities can also affect traffic patterns during construction and require new electrical infrastructure such as substations and transmission lines.

An Environmental Impact Report is a comprehensive study required under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for projects that may significantly affect the environment. An EIR analyzes potential impacts related to air quality, noise, water usage, energy demand, traffic, public safety, and other environmental factors. It also evaluates alternatives and mitigation measures. The process includes opportunities for public review and comment so community members and decision makers can understand the full scope of a project's potential impacts.

Residents can play an important role in shaping local decisions about large development projects. Community members can attend city council or planning commission meetings, submit public comments, and stay informed about proposed projects in their area. Organizing with neighbors and local community groups can help raise awareness and ensure that concerns are heard by local officials. Residents can also contact elected representatives, participate in public hearings, and advocate for stronger environmental review and local policies that protect their communities. Public participation and community organizing are often key to ensuring that land use decisions reflect the interests of the people who live there.