Wisconsin tech, business leaders weigh data centers, evolving energy landscape
Wisconsin energy and business leaders discussed how the rapid growth of data centers could reshape the state’s electricity demand and regulatory landscape. Officials warned that rejecting projects could have consequences, while We Energies may need to substantially expand capacity if two proposed data centers are built in its territory.
Energy and business leaders at a Wisconsin Technology Council luncheon and the Wisconsin Counties Association annual conference examined the state’s readiness for accelerating data center growth. Becky Valcq, president of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company and a former chair of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, cautioned county leaders against rejecting data center proposals without considering their broader implications.
Corey Singletary of the Citizens Utility Board said We Energies could need to double its electric capacity over the next decade if two proposed data centers in its Milwaukee-area service territory proceed. The discussions focused on rising electricity demand, utility planning and whether Wisconsin’s regulatory system can accommodate the industry’s expansion.