Report shows 'footprint' of Oregon's data center industry
A new report by ECONorthwest and the University of Virginia details the footprint of Oregon's data center industry. It reveals 111 operational data centers and 32 more planned, employing over 2600 people primarily in Eastern Oregon. A key finding is that data centers are projected to account for over 20% of retail electricity sales by 2025 and double consumption by 2030, raising concerns about the state's electricity grid.
A new 134-page report from ECONorthwest, a local research firm, and the University of Virginia has provided the first comprehensive look at Oregon's data center industry.
The report reveals that Oregon currently hosts 111 operational data centers, with an additional 32 either under construction or in the planning stages. These facilities collectively employ over 2,600 direct workers, with the majority concentrated in Eastern Oregon.
One of the most significant findings highlights the substantial electricity consumption of these centers. Researchers estimate that data centers will account for more than 20% of retail electricity sales in Oregon by 2025. This power consumption is expected to double by 2030, reaching nearly 25 terawatt hours annually, equivalent to powering 2.5 million homes for a year. The report indicates that Oregon's current electricity grid is likely unprepared to meet this anticipated surge in demand. It also points to information gaps regarding the industry's broader impacts on the state economy, taxes, and water usage.