Data centers are expanding across the West—and Tribal nations and communities are increasingly being approached for new projects.

That raises important questions about Tribal sovereignty, water, energy, and environmental justice.

Some Tribal nations are exploring data centers as a potential source of jobs and revenue. Others have adopted moratoriums or limits to give their communities time to study the impacts and make their own decisions.

That distinction matters: Tribal nations are sovereign governments. Their lands and communities must never be treated as an easier path around local rules, environmental protections, or meaningful public input.

Here in Nevada, proposed data-center development near Fernley also raises questions for communities near the Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation. Decisions about water, energy use, land, and infrastructure should include early and meaningful consultation with Tribal governments—not notification after plans are already underway.

Economic development must serve the people most affected by it.

LEAN will continue to advocate for transparent decision-making, protection of water and creation, affordable utility rates, and respect for Tribal sovereignty.

Read more: Nevada Current