Tom Still: Dem governor candidates can look nationally for data center guidance
Wisconsin's Democratic gubernatorial candidates debated their stances on mega-scale data centers, with positions ranging from a statewide moratorium to state regulations concerning environmental impact, energy use, and tax incentives. Candidates also discussed allowing communities to use existing zoning and planning rules for protection. The discussion highlights the nuanced approach needed to balance economic development with public concerns over land, water, and electricity usage.
During a televised debate, Wisconsin's leading Democratic candidates for governor discussed their varied positions on the development of mega-scale data centers within the state. State legislator Francesca Hong was the only candidate to advocate for an outright statewide moratorium, asserting its necessity for establishing enforcement mechanisms to safeguard local communities. Other candidates, including former State Department of Administration secretary Joel Brennan and current state senator Kelda Roys, proposed a temporary construction pause or state-level safeguards and assistance for communities, respectively.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley focused on requiring data centers to financially contribute to clean energy and power grid upgrades, while Mandela Barnes, who has since withdrawn from the race, suggested implementing more "guardrails" for local communities. The article notes that even presumptive Republican nominee Tom Tiffany shares similar concerns, opposing state subsidies, the use of productive farmland, and the shifting of electricity costs.
The debate reflects a national trend, with 14 other states having considered or enacted temporary construction pauses, localized moratoriums, or stricter utility regulations. Despite public opinion polls suggesting concerns over data center resource consumption, Wisconsin, like 38 other states, currently offers dedicated tax incentives for these facilities. The article emphasizes that Wisconsin's data center discussion is ongoing and that policymakers must avoid imposing rules that could harm the state's economy by driving development to other regions.
Tom Still, former president of the Wisconsin Technology Council and an adviser to Competitive Wisconsin Inc., provided this commentary.