Russell County Eyes Three or Four Data Centers on Reclaimed Moss Number 3 Mine

Russell County is exploring a data center campus on 236 acres of the reclaimed Moss No. 3 coal mine near Cleveland, according to Cardinal News.

Northern Virginia developer Oasis Digital Properties has a contract with the Russell County Industrial Development Authority, which owns the land. Co-founder Ross Litkenhous said the site could host three or four buildings over five to 10 years if clients sign on, with first power delivery possibly around 100 megawatts by 2028.

Authority director Laura Gilmer said members are under a nondisclosure agreement and declined detailed comment, while pointing to potential jobs and tax revenue. Litkenhous estimated roughly $20 million a year in local taxes at full power capacity and more than 1,000 construction jobs over the buildout.

Appalachian Power's Clinch River plant is about two miles away; Litkenhous said the utility confirmed 300 megawatts could be available. The utility said it does not discuss specific customer projects unless the customer makes details public.

Open-government advocates noted that an NDA cannot waive the public's Freedom of Information Act rights after the authority denied related records requests. A public forum is planned for later this fall once plans firm up.

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Email the Russell County Board/Council:
Andrew Hensley, andrew.hensley@russellcountyva.us,
Lou Ann Wallace, lou.wallace@russellcountyva.us,
Tara Dye, tara.dye@russellcountyva.us,
David Eaton, david.eaton@russellcountyva.us,
Steve Breeding, steve.breeding@russellcountyva.us,
Rebecca Dye, rebecca.dye@russellcountyva.us,
Nathan Kiser, nathan.kiser@russellcountyva.us,

Email the Russell County School Board:
Cynthia Compton,
Christy Perkins,
Tim Ball,
Jonathan Eaton,
Linda Garrett,
Bob Gibson,
Kip Parsons,