Regional leaders examine impact of data centers at CIRDA forum

A panel of government, utility, and economic development leaders gathered in Indianapolis to discuss the growing role of data centers and their potential impacts on communities across Central Indiana. The discussion was hosted by the Central Indiana Regional Development Authority (CIRDA) and moderated by Noblesville Mayor Chris Jensen. Panelists included officials from Bargersville, Morgan County, AES, CenterPoint Energy, Citizens Water, Duke Energy, and the land-use consulting firm Ginovus. The group discussed the infrastructure and resource requirements of data centers, including power, water usage, and land needs. They noted that the tech sector has seen increasing demand for data centers as companies expand cloud computing and AI capabilities. Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness, who has been involved in CIRDA's regional economic development work, attended the meeting along with other local leaders. CIRDA officials said the goal was to ensure communities have reliable information as they consider whether data center development aligns with their long-term plans. The panel discussion was described as part of CIRDA's broader effort to develop a regional economic strategy to keep Central Indiana competitive globally. CIRDA plans to continue discussing data center impacts at future public meetings.