Join the Conversation: Apple Valley Planning Committee Invites Community Input on Exciting New Technology Park Development

Why Minnesota Attracts Data Centers

Minnesota is gaining attention from data center companies, according to Oppidan. The state offers tax breaks and is less crowded than nearby areas, making it an appealing spot for projects. A major factor is the 2040 Carbon Free Plan, which helps these facilities meet renewable energy goals without needing to create their own power sources. Dakota Electric reports that they are currently 44% carbon-free and aim to reach 80% by 2030, 90% by 2035, and 100% by 2040.

Jonathan Beyer, the Vice President at Dakota Electric, highlighted that projects like this require the client to cover the cost of both transmission and distribution infrastructure. This arrangement helps improve local infrastructure without putting the financial burden on consumers.

Impact on the Environment and Economy

Water Usage

Apple Valley has the right to use 3 billion gallons of water each year but used only 2.32 billion in 2023. The Rockport mine is allowed 375 million gallons but used just 55 million gallons last year. The projected highest water usage for the new data center is 4 million gallons per day yet will likely use under 8 million gallons annually. This is a big cut compared to previous industrial use at the location due to Minnesota’s climate.

Noise Levels

Oppidan conducted a noise study that looked at sound levels from the mine and nearby roads. Daytime levels ranged from 44 to 72 dBA and nighttime from 39 to 69 dBA. Minnesota’s guidelines are 60 dBA for daytime and 50 dBA for nighttime. The data center’s regular operations should stay below the nighttime limit. During generator maintenance, which happens only about 20-25 hours a year in the daytime, noise won’t exceed nighttime limits either. A rare blackout scenario might push noise to 53 dBA, which the team is working to control.

Job Creation and Economic Benefits

The new data center is expected to create around 200 full-time jobs for the community. Over three years, the project could contribute approximately $1.08 billion to Dakota County’s economy, add $869.2 million in labor income, and generate nearly 12,000 job years from 2026 to 2028. Job roles and their salaries include:

• Account Director ($150,000/year)

• Critical Facilities Manager ($125,000/year)

• Operation Coordinator ($80,000/year)

• Critical Facilities Technician ($65,000-$80,000/year)

• Data Center Security Manager ($65,000/year)

• Security Guard ($22-$28/hour)