In a significant development for both technology and environmental sustainability, the Castilla-La Mancha government has granted final approval for Meta's data center project in Talavera de la Reina, Spain. This project, which has been recognized as a Project of Singular Interest (PSI), is set to reduce water consumption and mitigate potential impacts on local wildlife.
Originally proposed seven months ago, the data center will occupy a 102-hectare site and is expected to require an estimated investment of 750 million euros. The project aims to lower its water demand by up to six times compared to initial projections, ensuring compatibility with local water resources.
Environmental assessments indicate that the data center will use a maximum of 40,600 cubic meters of water annually, significantly less than the 511,500 cubic meters originally estimated. Furthermore, the initiative includes measures to protect local bird species, including the endangered imperial eagle and black vulture, by modifying electrical infrastructure to reduce collision risks.
The location of the data center, strategically placed between Madrid and Lisbon, was chosen for its environmental advantages, ensuring minimal disruption to nearby natural habitats. The project is projected to create substantial local employment opportunities, leveraging the region's skilled workforce.
This approval marks a crucial step towards balancing technological advancement with ecological preservation, setting a precedent for future projects worldwide.