Letters: For Project Baccara, facts matter more than rumors
Lisa Everett
Submitted photo/Lisa Everett
There are many rumors circulating about Project Baccara, the proposed data center that may be built in the county island near Surprise. With a project of this scale, questions are normal — but misinformation helps no one. That’s why it’s important to focus on the facts.
First, Project Baccara will use a closed-loop cooling system, a major improvement over older water-intensive data centers. The facility is expected to use no more than 100 acre-feet of water per year — less than the annual water use of a single hotel in Surprise. In a desert community, responsible water management matters, and this project appears to treat that responsibility seriously.
The project also includes a natural gas power plant, allowing it to generate its own electricity and sell excess power back to APS. Rather than straining our grid, this strengthens it. And despite online claims, the noise studies do include the gas plant, showing operations will not exceed current ambient noise levels. Air quality will be continuously monitored, not checked once a year, ensuring compliance and transparency.
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There are many rumors circulating about Project Baccara, the proposed data center that may be built in the county island near Surprise. With a project of this scale, questions are normal — but misinformation helps no one. That’s why it’s important to focus on the facts.
First, Project Baccara will use a closed-loop cooling system, a major improvement over older water-intensive data centers. The facility is expected to use no more than 100 acre-feet of water per year — less than the annual water use of a single hotel in Surprise. In a desert community, responsible water management matters, and this project appears to treat that responsibility seriously.
The project also includes a natural gas power plant, allowing it to generate its own electricity and sell excess power back to APS. Rather than straining our grid, this strengthens it. And despite online claims, the noise studies do include the gas plant, showing operations will not exceed current ambient noise levels. Air quality will be continuously monitored, not checked once a year, ensuring compliance and transparency.
Takanock, the developer, has been responsive to the city of Surprise, Luke Air Force Base and local homeowners. Both the Arizona Corporation Commission and Luke Air Force Base have indicated support for the project.
Data centers power everything we rely on — GPS, online banking, AI, Google searches and communications. As our world becomes increasingly digital, we cannot demand the benefits of technology while rejecting the infrastructure required to support it.
At this time, based on the information provided and the responsiveness shown, I support Project Baccara. Solutions require collaboration, not fear. Let’s move forward with facts, accountability and a commitment to smart growth in the West Valley.
Lisa Everett is the chair of the Arizona LD29 Republicans. Submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
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