Pro-Data Center Industry Group Behind Ad Campaign in Oregon, Virginia, Five Other States

The Data Center Coalition, an industry group backed by major tech companies including Microsoft, Google, Meta, QTS, and Equinix, has launched a multi-state ad campaign across Oregon, Indiana, Ohio, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia. These campaigns, run through state-specific entities like Oregon Connects, aim to counter growing public criticism regarding data centers' high demand for water, energy, land, and their reliance on tax breaks.

In Oregon, the campaign coincides with significant legislative and local actions. The Oregon Legislature passed a one-year pause on a Standard Enterprise Zone tax abatement program, following reports that data centers were the primary beneficiaries, saving hundreds of millions annually. Additionally, the Hillsboro City Council unanimously enacted a 120-day moratorium on approvals for any new data centers and battery energy storage systems, a decision attributed to intense community advocacy. Environmental group 1000 Friends of Oregon, alongside local leaders and farmers, also filed a lawsuit against the Hillsboro city government over its approvals for data center tax breaks.

Josh Levi, president of the Data Center Coalition, stated the campaign's purpose is to explain the industry's role and commitment to responsible resource usage. However, critics like Juan Carlos Ordóñez of the Oregon Center for Public Policy argue the ads mislead the public about the true costs and benefits. The funding for these extensive ad campaigns, including nearly $370,000 spent by North Carolina Connects recently, remains undisclosed by the groups.