TerraVolt Options 1,000 Acres East of Declo for Data Center

Residents of Declo will hold a public meeting on November 10 to discuss a proposed data center campus located just east of the town. TerraVolt Holdings announced on Friday that it has optioned 1,000 acres for the project, which includes a dedicated natural gas power plant. The town has a population of approximately 330.

TerraVolt CEO Joel Stone stated the company aims to work with Cassia County officials and the local community. Stone said the project seeks to provide responsible, long-term industrial tax base growth. He added that the plan intends to avoid impacting local power rates or the agricultural water the region depends on.

Property owner Jesse Wickel sold the land to TerraVolt. Wickel posted on Facebook asking the community to reserve judgment until plan details become clearer. He explained that the decision was made with the community and his children's future in mind. Wickel cited economic benefits and job creation as key factors. He also noted that the project's off-grid power generation and closed-loop water usage eased his concerns.

Local rancher and small business owner Les Hedges expressed opposition to the project. Hedges said he has generally opposed data centers and is concerned because the proposed property is less than a mile from his house. Hedges said he respects Wickel's right to sell the land but disagrees with the use. He described the property as his backyard and his hometown.

Data centers are not currently listed as a permitted use in Cassia County. The building and zoning department, along with the county commission, must approve the project. An open house is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, at 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium to inform residents about the scope and size of the development.

Community reaction has been mixed. Some residents on a local Facebook page defended the property owner's decision, while others questioned the project. At a Declo country store gas station, several residents said they did not know enough about the plan to form an opinion. The open house will serve as the first formal opportunity for residents to review the project details.