Crowley calls for pause on data centers
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources agreed to conduct a statewide analysis of the environmental impacts of AI data centers as part of a settlement with the Sierra Club and Vantage. The review will examine water use, greenhouse gas emissions, wildlife and energy demand, while gubernatorial candidate David Crowley called for a pause on data center development during the analysis.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources agreed to conduct an independent statewide strategic analysis of AI data centers under a settlement resolving the Sierra Club's lawsuit over permits for Vantage's data center campus in Port Washington. The analysis, which Vantage will fund, must be completed by January 2028 and will assess impacts including water use, greenhouse gas emissions, wildlife and energy consumption.
Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Crowley said data center development should be paused while the environmental review proceeds. Republican candidate Tom Tiffany said his administration would require projects to meet strict environmental standards before permits are issued. Environmental advocates cited concerns that data center growth could drive new gas-fired power plants and contribute to increased statewide electricity demand, while Vantage said it supports a fact-based review and responsible development.