US solar developer Donato Solar has submitted a concept plan to the DeKalb Planning and Zoning Commission for a 4MW solar project that will power a “boutique data center” in DeKalb, Illinois.

The data center would consist of two buildings on 30 acres at 1199 N Peace Road, between Greenwood Acres and Challenger Drives. In addition to the solar array, the project will also include a battery energy storage system.

The project will be "behind the meter," with the interconnection facilities located on the data center's property. Donato said the solar array would connect to the existing Ameren 12kV distribution grid.

As the property is outside Dekalb city limits, the developers are expected to request that the city annex the 30 acres before approving the project.

IAG Investments LLC is the owner of the land.

"The solar array and data center combination will provide a direct offset to utility costs, particularly during peak energy consumption periods when grid rates are typically higher," city staff wrote in a project summary.

Donato Solar said they intend to use local vendors and labor for the project "to the extent possible."

The developers plan to plant and maintain pollinator-friendly, perennial, native vegetation to prevent erosion, manage runoff, and build soil.

According to city documents, city staff has recommended additional landscaping along Peace Road, which is considered a "major roadway."

Several hurdles must be cleared if the Commission approves the developer's concept plan. A public hearing in front of the Commission and a final review of the development plan and City Council approval are required.

If the project is approved, a public hearing will be conducted at a later date.

Donato Solar is an independent renewable energy company based in Champaign, Illinois. It was founded in 2020 by Anthony Donato, CEO of data center and solar developer Gail Technology.

In April, Donato received $14.5 million in project financing from SunRocket Capital to fund the construction and operation of three solar projects.

The three projects, located in central Illinois, have a combined capacity of 9.24MW and are designed to provide renewable energy for commercial data centers operated by Gail Technology.

The company's LinkedIn page suggests they are cryptomining facilities.