Wisconsin Data Centers Reverse Electricity Decline
Statewide data center construction in Wisconsin is reversing a decade-long decline in electricity use, the Wisconsin Policy Forum reports, with 40 existing facilities and hyperscale builds expected to raise peak demand from 14.6 gigawatts in 2024 to about 17.1 gigawatts within five years. Utilities have filed applications for new power plants and proposed higher rates for data-center customers, while cooling needs will also increase water use, for example Microsoft’s site needs about 8 million gallons yearly.
Key Points
- 1Identify 40 existing Wisconsin data centers; hyperscale builds are expanding, increasing statewide electricity demand.
- 2Warn that peak demand could rise from 14.6GW in 2024 to 17.1GW, prompting new power plants.
- 3Advise utilities to seek infrastructure investments and potential rate increases; data centers may pay higher rates.
Scoring Rationale
High regional impact and actionable utility implications, balanced by limited national novelty and uncertain energy estimates.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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