Spata residents protest rapid data center expansion

Residents of the Christoupoli settlement in Spata, Greece, are protesting the rapid construction of multiple data centers in their immediate vicinity. The area is currently seeing the development of three major facilities: one by Microsoft, a second through a partnership between DEI and Damac, and a third by the Dromeus-Apto consortium.

Local inhabitants have expressed concerns regarding noise pollution and heat emissions generated 24/7 by cooling systems. Additionally, residents have questioned the promised economic benefits, noting that the expected surge in local job creation has not materialized.

In response to these developments, locals have filed an appeal with the Council of State against a Joint Ministerial Decision. This regulation allows for the licensing of power units under 20 MW without requiring environmental impact studies or public consultations, a loophole residents claim is being exploited.