Illinois residents weigh concerns over data centers' impact on energy and water

Kari Ross from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) appeared on FOX 32 Chicago to discuss the results of a new Illinois state poll and the proposed POWER Act. The poll indicates that Illinoisans are deeply worried about data center development, viewing these facilities unfavorably due to their significant energy and water consumption, potential pollution from diesel generators, and the perceived special treatment given to "big tech" companies. Ross highlighted that utility bill costs are a dominant concern, with residents already experiencing rapid price spikes. She cited that while data centers represent only 1% of ComEd's electricity demand, they contributed to a 595% capacity cost increase for ComEd customers, leaving other ratepayers to cover the remaining $1.7 billion capacity bill annually. Public concern also extends to environmental impacts, including water usage, which can reach up to 5 million gallons daily for cooling, and pollution. In response to these concerns, the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition, including NRDC, has put forward the POWER (Protecting Our Water, Energy, and Ratepayers) Act. Supported by Illinois House Majority Leader Representative Gabel and State Senator Ram Villivalam, this legislation aims to establish common-sense guardrails. The Act proposes to ensure data centers pay their fair share for energy and water consumption, invest in newly built clean energy, and promote transparency by prohibiting non-disclosure agreements with local governments and utilities. It also mandates community benefit agreements, giving neighbors a voice in project approvals to prevent projects from being greenlit without public input. Voters overwhelmingly support the need to regulate these companies and demand honesty and transparency in their operations.