What is the story about?
What's Happening?
Rowan Digital Infrastructure, a Denver-based company, has commenced the development of a $900 million hyperscale data center campus in Medina County, Texas, near San Antonio. The project, named Cinco, is situated on a 440-acre site and marks Rowan's first large-scale venture in Texas. The data center is designed to support cloud storage and artificial intelligence services for a major U.S. technology company. Initial site work has begun, with construction slated to start in the fall. The facility is expected to be operational within 18 to 24 months post-groundbreaking. The project will feature one or two large data-hall buildings initially, with provisions for future expansion. Rowan plans to power the campus using hydroelectric, solar, and wind energy, aligning with its sustainability goals.
Why It's Important?
The development of the Cinco data center reflects the growing demand for digital infrastructure driven by increased cloud computing and AI workloads. This project is significant for the San Antonio region, which is becoming a hub for such developments due to its favorable conditions, including access to power and fiber infrastructure. The project is expected to create approximately 600 construction jobs and over 40 permanent positions, contributing to local economic growth. Rowan's commitment to sustainability and community engagement, as evidenced by its open house event and environmental considerations, underscores the importance of responsible development in the tech industry.
What's Next?
As construction progresses, Rowan will continue to engage with the local community to ensure the project aligns with regional expectations. The company has committed to third-party monitoring of environmental impacts and maintaining transparency with residents. The successful completion of the Cinco data center could set a precedent for future sustainable tech developments in the area, potentially attracting more investment and innovation to the region.
