NDSU researcher separates fact from fear on data centers
A North Dakota State University researcher has published a study analyzing the impacts of AI data centers on water usage, electric rates, and community relations in the state. The research, titled "AI Data Centers: What North Dakota Needs to Know," aims to provide factual information to residents and legislators. It highlights that data center impacts vary significantly based on their type and location, citing examples from Applied Digital in Ellendale and Atlas Power in Williston.
Robert Mayo, a research specialist at North Dakota State University’s Challey Institute for Global Innovation and Growth, has authored a study titled "AI Data Centers: What North Dakota Needs to Know." The research aims to distinguish facts from fears regarding the impacts of AI data centers on water usage, electric rates, and community well-being, especially as new facilities emerge in locations such as Ellendale, Williston, and near Harwood.
Mayo's study emphasizes that the type and scale of data centers significantly influence their local effects. He explains that small to medium-sized centers can connect to existing local grids, while large hyperscale facilities, necessary for advanced AI models like Grok or ChatGPT, demand far more electricity than a typical local grid can supply. The report contrasts the outcomes of specific projects, noting that Applied Digital's facility in Ellendale, by co-locating near a wind farm, helped reduce electric rates, whereas Atlas Power's connection in Williston reportedly strained the local power grid, leading to increased rates.
The research also addresses water consumption, stating that in North Dakota's cold climate, data centers like Applied Digital's Ellendale facility can use minimal water—comparable to an average home—provided they employ appropriate cooling systems. Mayo stresses the importance of data center companies engaging with local communities and legislators as a "good neighbor" practice. His findings also indicate that noise from cooling fans should not be an issue for residents if facilities are built at least half a mile from homes. Mayo urges residents and local legislators to ask questions and engage in dialogue to ensure responsible development.