The AI boom is reshaping the Midwest, driving a wave of data center development, straining energy systems, consuming millions of gallons of water — and triggering a new debate over who benefits.Why it matters: Data centers power the AI boom — but their soaring energy and water demands often go unreported, with unclear benefits for local communities and few permanent jobs created.
- Data centers used 4.4% of U.S. electricity in 2023 and could consume up to 12% by 2028, per the U.S. Department of Energy.
- Data center construction is at an all-time high, increasing 69% year over year from 2023 to 2024, per CBRE, a commercial real estate firm.
Yes, and: The Midwest is emerging as one of the nation`s fastest-growing data center hubs, with development stretching from Kansas and Iowa to Great Lakes states like Ohio, Michigan, Indiana and Wisconsin...
RSK: These articles by Axios hit the nail on the head and why the Midwest including Wisconsin is hot on the data center developers lists.
Share this article on your social outlets
Our Sponsors
- - Volume: 25 - WEEK: 17 Date: 4/23/2025 9:26:45 AM -