Lyon County approves zoning for massive Nevada data center

Lyon County commissioners voted 3-1 to approve a zoning change for the Monarch Data Center, a massive 1,000-megawatt project proposed by Copia Power near Yerington, Nevada. The 4.6 million-square-foot campus is planned for approximately 505 acres in Mason Valley and is intended to include a 500-megawatt natural gas backup plant and a battery energy storage system.

The approval marks a departure from other Nevada jurisdictions, such as Reno and Nye County, which have recently implemented moratoriums on new data center developments. While local business representatives and building trades supported the project for its potential tax revenue and job creation, dozens of residents expressed opposition during the meeting.

The approval is tentative. Copia Power must still secure final design approval from the board, complete land purchases, and obtain necessary permits from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection and the State Engineer before construction can begin.