Eco Data Hubs, Renewable Energy, Urban Revitalization, Environmental Impact...

The Boston Globe reports that the former Loring Air Force Base in Limestone, Maine, is set to undergo a dramatic transformation, potentially becoming the state’s first large-scale, eco-friendly data center. The proposed server farm would be powered entirely by renewable hydropower and utilize innovative water-free cooling technologies, marking a significant shift from the energy-intensive, water-dependent models traditionally associated with data centers. The base, already repurposed as a business park and commercial airport, has recently pivoted toward a sustainability-focused campus through the efforts of Green 4 Maine. However, local stakeholders are raising concerns regarding the project’s impact on utility rates, grid stability, and the sensitive ecosystem surrounding the site, highlighting the need for comprehensive environmental and community assessments as part of the redevelopment process. bostonglobe.com