Beale Infrastructure has confirmed an updated design for its proposed data centre development in Pima County, introducing a sustainable air-cooled system that eliminates industrial water consumption. The revised plan, developed in partnership with the Pima County Board of Supervisors, reflects the outcome of ongoing engagement with community leaders and residents.

The first phase of the development will be located in the county’s Southeast Employment and Logistics Center. The updated design makes use of a closed-loop cooling system, which recirculates minimal amounts of water, ensuring that no potable or non-potable water is consumed for industrial cooling. Water use will be limited to domestic purposes such as kitchens, bathrooms, and fire suppression, on a scale consistent with standard commercial facilities.

“Beale is focused on bringing long-term value to the region, and we are committed to continuing to partner with stakeholders to ensure that this project reflects the community’s values and priorities. We appreciate the dialogue with the Pima County Board of Supervisors about the project plan and will be soliciting and implementing feedback from members of the community,” said Michael Nudelman, Chief Development Officer at Beale Infrastructure. “This revised project plan is designed to the highest standard of sustainable facility operations, utilizing existing clean energy resources and incorporating air cooling technology. It will enable transformative investment in southern Arizona to meet the region’s expanding digital infrastructure needs.”

The $3.6 billion project is described as one of the largest digital infrastructure investments in southern Arizona. Sandra Watson, President and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, said: “This historic $3.6 billion investment in Southern Arizona’s digital infrastructure will power next-gen discoveries and technologies, enhance the region’s economic competitiveness, and significantly benefit local residents and community institutions like schools and public safety. We commend the thoughtful, collaborative planning that has enabled this project to advance in a sustainable and responsible way and are proud to work with local partners to support its success.”

Beale confirmed that there are no changes to the Energy Supply Agreement filed by Tucson Electric Power (TEP) with the Arizona Corporation Commission on 25 August 2025. The agreement provides up to 286 megawatts of energy and ensures safeguards for customers, including no increase in rates, no requirement for new power plants, and financial guarantees that prevent any risk being transferred to ratepayers.

“Our energy supply agreement ensures that this project will have only positive impacts for our customers,” said Susan Gray, TEP’s President and CEO. “This is what balanced growth looks like: welcoming new investment while protecting longtime residents; building for the future while strengthening the present.”

Community leaders have also voiced support. Joe Snell, President and CEO of the Southern Arizona Chamber, described the initiative as a balance between growth and sustainability. “In Southern Arizona, we care deeply about balancing growth with responsibility. This project reflects that balance. Beale listened, adapted, and delivered a plan that limits water use, embraces clean energy, and responds to community priorities. Beyond the environmental improvements, this $3.6 billion investment will create thousands of jobs and generate more than $150 million in tax revenues over the next decade, funding better schools, stronger public services, and more opportunities for local families. The Chamber is proud to support a project that honours our values today while showing that this region is on the cutting edge of innovative data center development for the future,” he said.

Ted Maxwell, President and CEO of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council, added: “At SALC, we believe strong communities and economic prosperity go hand-in-hand. In today’s digital age, visionary communities can achieve generational impact by partnering with innovative data center developers. By listening to broad-based feedback, revising its design, and staying true to its sustainability values, Beale Infrastructure has proven they are a partner committed to our regional success. Now it is our turn to be bold and move this project forward.”

Independent analysis projects the initial phase will generate $3.6 billion in capital investment, $152 million in tax revenues over 10 years, including $58.5 million for Pima County, and more than 3,000 construction jobs. By 2029, the facility is expected to support 180 permanent roles, with an average annual salary of $64,000.

Danny Seiden, President and CEO of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said: “This investment is a massive win for Southern Arizona. It will create high-quality jobs, expand digital infrastructure, and strengthen the region’s competitiveness for decades to come. We especially commend Beale Infrastructure for listening to the community and advancing a project that drives growth while cutting industrial water use and running on clean energy. That’s the kind of smart investment that ensures Arizona remains the best place in the country to live, work, and build.”

Joshua DeSpain, Business Manager for IBEW Local 570, highlighted the project’s role in supporting union labour: “IBEW members are proud to help build the future of Southern Arizona. This project brings not only high-quality union jobs to our region, but also reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. By utilizing air cooling and investing in clean energy, the project proves that economic growth and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”

Beale has also indicated that it will continue engaging with the community as the project develops, including the exploration of philanthropic initiatives aligned with Pima County’s growth strategy.