Residents Gather to Discuss Energy and Data Center Growth
Stillwater was the site recently of a town hall meeting where data centers and the spread of green energy projects dominated the discussion. Attendees raised questions, voiced concerns, and sought clarity on how rapidly evolving energy and technology projects could affect Payne County.
The Stillwater Press reported that the advocacy group Save Our Sunsets sponsored the meeting. Members said they wanted to provide updates about multiple proposals moving through planning and regulatory channels.
Save Our Sunsets Outlines Local Energy Concerns
Transmission, Wind, Solar, Data Centers and Storage
According to the Stillwater Press, members of Save Our Sunsets explained they aimed to brief residents on potential transmission lines, wind projects, solar developments, data centers, and battery storage projects in Payne County. They said the goal was to help the community understand the scale and speed of what is being proposed.
The group emphasized that Payne County could see significant changes in land use and grid infrastructure if all the contemplated projects advance.
Quote from Stillwater Press: Newest Target Is Data Centers
The Stillwater Press also reported that the group’s focus has evolved along with the project pipeline.
“The group has previously opposed transmission lines, solar and wind projects and the newest target is data centers. A press release pointed to ‘additional five or more proposed data centers, HVDC (high-voltage direct current) transmission lines, a proposed 600-acre solar power plant and issues related to a wind turbine blade recycling plant near Coyle,’ reported the Stillwater Press.”
That quote captures the full list of concerns: five or more proposed data centers, HVDC transmission lines, a 600-acre solar project, and issues tied to a wind turbine blade recycling facility near Coyle.
Growing Regional Debate Over Large Energy Projects
The town hall reflects broader debates happening across Oklahoma and the region as data center developers, renewable energy companies, and transmission planners target new sites. Advocates like Save Our Sunsets say communities need a stronger voice in project siting, route selection, and long-term land use impacts.
Organizers indicated they plan to hold additional meetings as more information emerges, and as regulatory actions move forward at the local, state, and regional grid levels.
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