The Montana Towns With The Most Data Centers

Data center development is becoming a significant issue in Montana, attracting attention for both its digital necessity and environmental impact. While essential for modern digital life, public sentiment indicates a reluctance for these facilities in local communities, largely due to their high energy and water demands, amplified by the rise of artificial intelligence. Across Montana, several towns are already hosts to or slated for data center projects. Missoula currently has two, one operational and another planned. Billings leads with five data centers, four of which are operational and one planned. Great Falls stands out with an impressive twenty planned facilities, a concentration that may be influenced by the proximity of Malmstrom Air Force Base. The widespread presence and planned expansion of data centers have prompted residents to critically evaluate the associated costs, particularly concerning resource consumption. This ongoing discussion highlights a growing debate between the demands of a digital world and local environmental and resource concerns.