Connecting the Dots for Your Data Center

Picture this: You’ve acquired the perfect land for your data center, which is set to break ground next year. That’s the good news. The bad news is that your build site is several miles from existing infrastructure. That means you’ll need a plan to “connect the dots”—you need a right of way. (That’s where we can help!)

This article discusses the complexities of obtaining right of way for data centers. Need to talk to an expert? Contact us to ask a question or inquire about our services.

Data Center Right of Way Can Be Tricky

Easements provide temporary or permanent access to someone else’s property. Data center right of way involves securing easements—such as access roads and underground trenches—to allow for the construction, completion, and/or expansion of a data center.

Data centers pose unique challenges from a right of way perspective due to:

Diversity of Energy Sources: Going “offline” can be devastating to a data center, so 24/7 energy access is essential. To hedge against electricity outages and avoid reliance on a singular source, some data center developers employ a diversified mix of wind, solar, natural gas, battery storage, and even nuclear energy.

Variety of Inputs and Outputs: Connecting to the power grid likely involves constructing new transmission lines, but that’s only the beginning. When “diversified” energy strategies are in play, underground trenches for natural gas and windmills may also be necessary. If carbon sequestration is involved, easements from the point of capture to storage may be required. And, don’t forget high-speed fiber lines that connect the data center to the outside world.

Natural and Man-Made Barriers: Looking at a two-dimensional map often oversimplifies the complexity of a right of way project. Flood zones, rocky soil conditions, protected wildlife areas, buildings, highways, and other structures can make a “straight line” solution impossible.

Landowner Considerations: A proposed data center can become a political football within a community. As a result, some landowners may refuse easements across their property. Resistant landowners could have a change of perspective with the right approach, but there’s no guarantee.

Need Help Connecting the Dots?

Data center developers can partner with our team at New Era Land Services. From landowner engagement and GIS support to right of way acquisition, we have the capabilities to support your data center.

Contact us to schedule a consultation or request a proposal.