As data center skepticism rises, Google rep says they want to be a good neighbor | NBC DFW

Google has recently opened two new data center facilities in Red Oak and Midlothian, both located in Ellis County, Texas, adding to the over 400 data centers across the state. These expansions have sparked concerns among voters and the legislature that data centers will lead to increased energy costs for consumers. Liz Schwab, Google's Energy Development Manager, addressed these concerns, stating that the idea data centers significantly increase electricity fees is a misconception. Citing a study from Lawrence Berkeley National Labs, Schwab argued that states with higher electricity demand growth, often driven by large users like data centers, actually experience a flatter or lower increase in electricity rates. She used an analogy of a wealthy roommate sharing fixed costs, explaining that data centers cover their operational costs, including electricity and infrastructure, and their presence helps modernize and invest in the grid, which benefits all users. Schwab clarified that while some data centers might have co-located solar and battery generation, much of the energy will be sourced from the broader ERCOT grid as a shared resource. Discussing the economic impact, Schwab highlighted that one Google campus alone can create several hundred full-time operational jobs, often high-skilled, six-figure positions that do not require a four-year degree. She also emphasized the significant, long-term construction jobs, with an average site employing over 4,000 construction workers during the initial five-year period. Indirect economic benefits are also substantial, with an average Google data center contributing $688 million annually to local economic activity, supporting various local businesses. However, a political commentator noted that while Google's argument about grid upgrades is valid, these benefits take years to materialize. Voters, facing immediate increases in utility bills, may not accept long-term promises, making data center expansion a significant political issue without an effective public education campaign.