Iowa Senate Candidate Ashley Hinson on Data Center Policy
Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson discusses her stance on data center development, emphasizing the importance of local control, responsible water usage through closed-loop systems, and ensuring stable electricity rates for residents. She highlights a data center in Cedar Rapids as an example of doing projects the 'right way'.
Iowa Senate candidate Ashley Hinson shared her perspective on data center development, acknowledging widespread concerns among Iowans and across the country regarding these projects. She differentiated between a 'right way' and a 'wrong way' to approach data center construction, particularly focusing on water and electricity consumption.
Hinson cited Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where two data centers are currently under development, as an example. One of these facilities, which she praised, is implementing a closed-loop water system, drawing water only once, which she described as the most environmentally friendly method. On the energy front, this same data center has secured 5-year fixed rates for ratepayers with the local utility, a decision she noted was driven by local control.
She advocated for data center decisions to be made at the local level, closer to the affected communities. Hinson also highlighted a specific role for Congress in addressing the energy aspect of data centers, noting past actions by the Biden administration regarding coal power plants. Her comments underscore a focus on balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and consumer protection.