An Amazon data center in Boardman, Ore., on April 2, 2026. Many of the data centers across Oregon rely on diesel generators to provide backup power. This is in sharp contrast to the Verrus model, which uses batteries and what it calls "power orchestration technology" to provide power backup. The company says its design allows data centers to be operated sustainably.
Saskia Hatvany / OPB
The Salem City Council has voted unanimously to begin the process of adopting a data center moratorium. Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has formed a task force to develop statewide regulations for these facilities, and she recently canceled the sale of a piece of state-owned land that the Verrus company was slated to purchase as part of the process of building a data center on the property.
Kotek released a statement about the cancellation. “This decision is about my responsibility to make sure state actions reflect Oregon’s values and serve the public interest,” she said. “I believe in growing Oregon’s economy and welcoming new investment, including in the technology sector. But growth has to make sense for the community, for our infrastructure, and for our natural resources.”
Verrus CEO Nelson Abramson argues his company’s data centers are different than most — he makes the case that projects should benefit the community, support current infrastructure, and protect natural resources. He says the company’s facility would fulfill all those goals, unlike other similar facilities around the country.
Abramson joins us to tell us more about the project.
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