STAMP and large-scale solar developments are changing rural life forever
Editor:
Recent discussion about STAMP’s expansion shows why our community needs clear answers and strong, independent oversight.
STAMP covers approximately 1,250 acres in the Town of Alabama, with a portion already slated for development. Even at this scale, it places a massive industrial footprint on a rural farming region.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) declined to lead a full environmental impact study. Instead, the Industrial Development Agency—which created, promotes, and funds STAMP—took control of the review process.
This decision raises serious questions about political pressure and conflicts of interest.
Nearby, the Cider Solar project spans roughly 2,500 acres across parts of Elba and Oakfield, within about 10 to 15 miles of STAMP.
Although these projects remain legally separate, officials promote them together, implying that they complement one another—especially in meeting the growing energy demands of proposed data and media centers that could eventually exceed two million square feet.
Local officials promise major financial benefits for municipalities and schools through STAMP-related agreements. While education funding matters, communities should not sacrifice farmland, clean water, and long-term environmental stability in exchange.
Developers are now converting thousands of acres of productive farm land and wildlife habitat into industrial zones. As these natural areas disappear, deer and other wildlife move into neighboring farms and residential areas, worsening an already serious overpopulation and safety problem. Residents must manage the consequences.
Construction crews strip topsoil, alter drainage patterns, and fragment natural landscapes. Neighbors face rising risks of runoff, erosion and flooding. Once developers industrialize this land, no one can restore it.
STAMP’s 2.2 million square foot data center’s projected energy demand could reach approximately 500 megawatts, placing enormous strain on our regional power grid. When renewable sources fall short, operators will rely on 12 diesel generators, bringing noise and pollution into communities that once enjoyed clean air and quiet nights.
At the same time, data center operations will require more than 20,000 gallons of water every day for cooling. Operators will then discharge that water back into local waterways, raising serious long-term concerns for water quality and ecosystem health.
Supporters often describe these projects as “green” and “sustainable.” In reality, no project that replaces farmland and habitat with permanent industrial infrastructure deserves a “Green” label.
This letter does not oppose progress. It calls for responsible development, honest review, and meaningful public participation.
Our community deserves transparency, independent environmental oversight, and a real voice before decision-makers lock in irreversible changes.
Once we lose this way of life, we cannot bring it back.
Sincerely,
Gina L. Miller
Albion
