A group of environmental organizations in Wisconsin is urging the state to pause new data center developments. They want a plan that protects climate goals and ensures fair energy costs for consumers.
The Clean Economy Coalition of Wisconsin (CECW) says the state is at a critical point in the national debate over data centers. They argue there’s often a misleading choice between promoting economic growth and achieving clean energy goals.
The coalition represents many nonprofits focused on environmental advocacy, aiming to push for a balanced approach to such developments. They’re concerned that the energy needs of data centers will soon exceed those of all residential consumers in Wisconsin. This rapid growth could lead to delays in shutting down coal plants and increase reliance on fossil fuels, affecting both the state’s energy grid and residents’ utility bills.
The coalition laid out a framework with ten policy recommendations to guide the state in managing this development responsibly. These include:
- Lower energy costs for consumers.
- Prioritize 100% clean energy.
- Invest in diverse non-fossil energy sources.
- Plan for future energy needs.
- Uphold fair labor standards.
- Foster agreements between tech companies and local communities.
- Engage local stakeholders.
- Use public funds responsibly.
- Minimize water usage.
- Maintain transparency about environmental impacts and energy consumption.
This framework contrasts with recent Republican-backed legislation that passed in the Assembly. That bill focuses on preventing residential ratepayers from paying for data center energy infrastructure and mandates recycling of cooling water. Critics argue it does not sufficiently address the risk of increased fossil fuel dependency.
Notably, the bill requires renewable energy to be generated on-site at new data centers, a provision Democratic lawmakers criticize for potentially tying future developments to fossil fuels.
State Assembly Speaker Robin Vos defended this approach, stating that it respects the preferences of residents who may not want solar fields near their homes. In contrast, Rep. Robyn Vining labeled the legislation “rushed” and emphasized the need to protect residents from rising energy costs.
The coalition calls for a halt to further data center developments until a comprehensive and sustainable framework is in place. They stress the importance of balancing immediate needs with long-term environmental and economic viability.
As data centers continue to grow, the conversation around their environmental impact and energy consumption is crucial. The path Wisconsin chooses could significantly influence both its economy and climate commitments.
For further reading on this topic, refer to the Clean Economy Coalition and stay updated on how these developments unfold.
