Google holds open house on proposed Hermantown data center

Google held an open house in Hermantown, Minnesota, to address local concerns regarding a proposed 1.2-million-square-foot data center. Hundreds of residents attended, with many expressing strong opposition over potential energy consumption, environmental impact, and noise pollution, as highlighted by protester Eleanor Dolan's concerns about air pollution, deforestation, and wetland destruction. The data center is intended to support Google's services and artificial intelligence initiatives.

Google officials, including Tyler Huebner, a manager with Google's energy market development team, tried to allay fears by stating the company would comply with all state and local laws and power the facility with clean energy. Huebner noted that Google's energy service agreement with Minnesota Power, under review by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, would fund wind energy and clean battery storage infrastructure, potentially saving Minnesota Power customers $600 million to $800 million over 15 years. He also claimed the facility would use minimal water through air-cooled or closed-loop systems and adhere to Minnesota's noise standards.

The proposed data center is projected to create 1,500-2,000 construction jobs and at least 40 full-time positions with above-average wages, alongside significant tax revenue for Hermantown, potentially generating over ten times the current $80,000 annual tax from the undeveloped land. Hermantown Public Schools could also receive about $40 million in support over 28 years. Minnesota Rep. Natalie Zeleznikar attended the event, seeking detailed blueprints and buffer proposals to balance environmental concerns with economic development. The Hermantown City Council previously tabled a vote in May on tax abatements and a development agreement for the project.