Wuehler appointed to statewide data center task force
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has appointed 17 members, including Lincoln County Commissioner Micaela Wuehler, to a new statewide data center task force. The task force will evaluate the impacts of data centers on Nebraska's water, power grids, and infrastructure, and develop zoning guidelines. It operates under a governor's executive order, with its first meeting expected in September.
Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has established a 17-member statewide data center task force by executive order (26-17) to assess the industry's impact on the state's resources. Among the appointees are Lincoln County Commissioner Micaela Wuehler and Sarpy County Commissioner Angi Burmeister, alongside leaders from various sectors including business, industry, investment, and public utilities.
The task force, operating under the Nebraska Department of Water, Environment and Energy (DWEE), is mandated to evaluate the effects of data centers on Nebraska’s water resources, power grids, and local infrastructure. Governor Pillen emphasized the need to balance data center development with the preservation of land, electricity, and water, stating that the group's diverse expertise will ensure sound decision-making.
Beyond impact assessment, the task force will focus on empowering county officials with necessary tools, zoning guidelines, and policy frameworks to effectively manage data center growth. The group's inaugural meeting is anticipated to take place in September. Governor Pillen also recently participated in a White House roundtable on July 23, addressing concerns about ratepayers subsidizing electricity costs for large data centers.