Elk River residents raise concerns over proposed data center
Residents in Elk River, Minnesota, are actively opposing a proposed 33-megawatt data center due to concerns about noise, water usage, and electricity demand. This local opposition is part of a broader statewide debate, with advocacy groups pushing for a moratorium on data center developments across Minnesota. Minneapolis has already enacted a six-month moratorium and is considering permanent regulations.
Residents in Elk River, Minnesota, expressed significant opposition to a proposed 33-megawatt data center during a recent meeting. Neighbors voiced concerns regarding potential noise, increased water usage, and heightened electricity demand, despite developers estimating the project could generate up to $800,000 annually for the city and create 40 jobs.
Katherine Hoffman, Executive Director of the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, highlighted the statewide nature of these concerns. She advocated for a two-year moratorium on data center developments across Minnesota, arguing that cities are not adequately equipped to conduct the necessary level of environmental analysis on these rapidly moving projects.
In a related development, Minneapolis has already enacted a six-month moratorium on data centers, which is set to run through November. The city is currently seeking public input as it deliberates and considers establishing permanent regulations for future data center construction.