Story perspectives

Ohio OKs Meta Data Center Gas Plant, Residents Cite Risks

6/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ohio Power Siting Board approved the Apollo Generating Station natural-gas plant on Feb 3 2026 to power Meta’s 800-acre data center in Bowling Green.
A 2025 state law lets data-center power projects receive approval in as little as 45 days without public hearings, speeding the Apollo plant.
Resident Breanne Kidd, whose daycare sits across the street, warns of air-quality and safety risks, noting developers cite confidentiality agreements to limit public information.

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Story summary

Ohio Power Siting Board approved the Apollo Generating Station natural-gas plant on Feb 3 2026 to power Meta’s 800-acre data center in Bowling Green.
A 2025 state law lets data-center power projects receive approval in as little as 45 days without public hearings, speeding the Apollo plant.
Resident Breanne Kidd, whose daycare sits across the street, warns of air-quality and safety risks, noting developers cite confidentiality agreements to limit public information.