Bloomington residents concerned over data center water use
Residents in Bloomington, Illinois, are expressing concerns over data centers' high water and electricity usage, as an environmental advocacy group conducts a statewide educational tour. They are advocating for the "Power Act," a state bill aimed at regulating data centers and making them accountable for utility rate increases. The proposed legislation is currently under review by the Illinois State Senate AI and Social Media Committee.
A coalition of environmental and clean energy advocacy organizations is touring Illinois to educate the public on the environmental and economic impacts of data centers. Their recent stop at the Bloomington Library allowed residents to learn from experts and voice concerns regarding the significant water consumption and vast energy requirements of these industrial buildings, which are proliferating due to AI development.
Experts highlighted that some data centers demand as much energy as thousands of homes. A speaker named Allen cautioned that the mere threat of these facilities has begun to destabilize markets, and if large gigawatt data centers become operational, utility bill increases could become a severe and rapid problem. Andrew Rehn of Prairie Rivers Network noted that water usage is a primary concern for residents, alongside noise pollution for those living near data center sites.
The group is advocating for the passage of the "Power Act," a proposed state bill designed to regulate data centers. This legislation would, among other things, mandate that data center companies assume responsibility for any utility rate increases directly caused by their operations. Rehn indicated that the Power Act enjoys substantial public support, with approximately 68% of residents reportedly in favor.
The "Power Act" is currently awaiting discussion within the Illinois State Senate AI and Social Media Committee. Lawmakers face a deadline of May 31st to address the proposal; otherwise, it cannot be revisited until October.