Microsoft is looking to expand its existing data center campus in Phoenix, Arizona.

Azbex reports Microsoft has requested a site plan amendment for its collection of data center facilities at 12901 W Olive Avenue in the El Mirage area of the city, in Maricopa County.

The amendment covers plans to build a new facility, known as PHX-83, that will total 245,500 sq ft (22,808 sqm). Power will be provided by the existing Arizona Public Service on-site substation.

Planning staff recommended the amendment for approval 4-0. The project will be presented to the City Council at the upcoming December 3 meeting.

Under the original authorized site plan, PHX-80 is completed and operational, while PHX-81 and PHX-82 are permitted and under construction. PHX-83 will be the fifth building at the site.

According to Stantec’s submission: “Similar to PHX80, PHX81 and PHX82, the PHX83 data center building will support the storage and operation of computer servers within five data halls. The building will also include an administrative area that will be used by operations, maintenance, and security staff. The electrical and mechanical equipment surrounding the building will be used to provide space cooling, normal utility power, and back-up emergency power.”

Microsoft operates data centers in El Mirage and Goodyear. Microsoft launched its West US 3 Azure cloud region – based in Phoenix – in June 2021. The first building at the site launched in 2021.

The company first acquired 150 acres in the El Mirage area in 2019 and acquired another 280 acres this year. The PHX-83 extension is set to be on the original 150 acres; the additional acreage acquired this year is reportedly zoned for a further three buildings.

It owns more than 450 acres in Goodyear along MC-85 and Lower Buckeye Road where it has two data centers, and along Citrus and Indian School roads.

Compass is also developing a campus in El Mirage.