In Maintal, within the Main-Kinzig district, the construction of a multi-billion-euro data center has been put on hold—at least for the time being—since May 2026, due to massive protests. The U.S. operator, EdgeConneX, halted the project following public outcry and growing political opposition. The primary catalyst for this was a planned on-site gas power plant with an output of approximately 170 megawatts, which was intended to power the facility until a potential grid connection could be established in 2037. Critics warned of high CO₂ emissions, increased air pollution, and adverse impacts on nearby residential areas. Consequently, the city now faces uncertainty regarding investments, potential business tax revenues, opportunities for utilizing waste heat, and unresolved infrastructure costs. (hessenschau: 11.05.26)
Gas Power Plant Becomes the Catalyst for Protests
The dispute did not flare up solely over the data center. At the heart of the matter was the planned interim solution for the power supply. EdgeConneX intended to construct its own gas power plant, as the standard grid connection would not have become available until years later.
Opponents viewed this as a significant burden on both residents and the environment. They pointed to potential emissions, additional land consumption, and the project’s proximity to residential areas. Thus, what began as a digital infrastructure project evolved into a fundamental debate regarding energy consumption and municipal risks.
Maintal Questions the Value of the Multi-Billion-Euro Project
The total investment volume amounted to approximately one billion euros. EdgeConneX had already secured the necessary land for the project. Nevertheless, it remained unclear to what extent the municipality would actually stand to benefit.
Critics were particularly skeptical about the long-term benefits. Once operational, data centers generate relatively few jobs. Furthermore, potential revenue from local business taxes could not be reliably assessed.
Waste Heat and Follow-up Costs Remain Unresolved
Theoretically, a portion of the waste heat was to be utilized in the future. However, this would have required new pipelines and technical facilities. It remained unclear what costs the municipal utilities or the local government might incur.
These unresolved issues heightened skepticism within local politics. The CDU, in particular, questioned whether the benefits and burdens were in a justifiable balance.
Operator Explores Alternatives
To date, there has been no definitive cancellation. EdgeConneX is currently exploring alternative options for energy supply. Whether the company will return to Maintal with a new concept remains to be seen.
One thing, however, is clear: without a viable energy concept, the data center project is unlikely to gain political approval.