The University of Delaware has pulled the plug on plans for a data center and connected power plant in Newark.
The college announced Thursday it has terminated the lease agreement with The Data Centers, the company that planned to build the data center and a 279-megawatt cogeneration power plant on its STAR Campus.
The school’s decision comes after an in-depth analysis of the project by a working group made up of UD faculty and administrators unanimously found the plans "not consistent" with the university's commitment to developing a first-class science and technology center.
“The University is committed to providing economic development opportunities for the region and state,” said UD President Patrick Harkerin a statement released with the decision and the working group's full report. “Moreover, it is extremely important that development on the STAR Campus, which is held to the highest standards, is appropriate both for the short and the long term, and that future generations of students will have a top-quality education. We have carefully examined The Data Centers’ plans, and have determined that they are not a good fit for the STAR Campus.”
The working group’s report cited efficiency issues, facility's size and the output of significant greenhouse gasses and carbon emissions as reasons it could not endorse the project.
The decision follows months of heated debate between supporters and critics of the plan, specifically the power plant portion of the proposal.
In his statement announcing the school's decision, Harker noted the role that debate played.
"The University of Delaware values its partnership with the community of Newark and recognizes how important a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere is to our goals and mission and to our students. We have been impressed with the level of passion, input and discussion surrounding this project," said Harker.
Gov. Jack Markell (D-Delaware) was among those who offered support for the project as the kind of economic driver the state needs in a sluggish economy. In a statement Thursday, Markell's office said it respected UD's decision.
"Appropriately the university conducted an extensive review of the facts and came to the determination that this project is not a good fit for the STAR campus. The Governor remains interested in working with UD to develop that site in a manner that will create jobs and strengthen Delaware's network of science and technology businesses," read the statement.
Newark city officials also did not specifically address UD's rationale for killing the project in their reaction to the university's decision, choosing to stress future opportunities.
"While we understand the University's decision, Newark will continue to welcome and encourage business development initiatives at the site," said City Manager Carol Houck in a statement. "We will work with the University and the State to identify tenants that will complement the innovative goals of the STAR Campus."
"Newark remains dedicated to creating and sustaining a multi-faceted economic base and, for that reason, we will continue to attract a diverse range of high-quality business and industrial firms," said Mayor Polly Sierer in her own statement. "The STAR Campus will continue to be a high profile and attractive location that's ready for development and well situated."