Minnesota Cannot Afford to Turn Away Data Center Infrastructure
An editorial argues that Minnesota must attract data center development for its economic future, citing job creation and tax benefits. It highlights that even with strong state regulations for sustainable data centers, projects face legal challenges that could deter investment. The authors urge Minnesota to maintain a consistent process to remain competitive.
Doug Loon, president and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, and Tom Dicklich, executive director of the Minnesota Building and Construction Trades Council, co-authored an editorial for The Globe, urging Minnesota to actively embrace data center development. They assert that these facilities are crucial for the state's economic future, serving as foundational infrastructure for artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and various advanced industries.
The editorial emphasizes the substantial economic benefits of data centers, including significant job creation and growth in local tax revenues, which support public services. The authors highlight that modern data centers are increasingly integrated with renewable energy sources and incorporate advanced efficiency measures for energy and water use.
Despite legitimate community concerns regarding environmental impacts, Minnesota enacted legislation in 2025 that established stringent standards for large-scale data centers, addressing sustainable design, energy accountability, water resources, and labor practices. However, Loon and Dicklich warn that even projects adhering to these comprehensive regulations are facing lawsuits intended to cause delays or block development.
They conclude that if Minnesota gains a reputation for uncertainty and prolonged approval processes, state-of-the-art data center investments will be diverted to other states. This, they argue, would jeopardize Minnesota's long-term prosperity and its ability to attract vital capital, construction jobs, and ongoing economic activity.