Data center community information session held
The Lake Superior Community Partnership hosted an informational session in Marquette about data centers, including their potential benefits and risks. Speakers discussed growing demand driven by artificial intelligence, as well as concerns about water use and strain on the power grid.
The Lake Superior Community Partnership held a community information session at Peter White Public Library in Marquette to explain data center technology and its potential effects. CEO Natalie Chmiko said the event was intended to provide factual information rather than advocate for or against future projects.
Speakers Dakota Baker of the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance, Jeff Guilfoyle of Public Sector Consultants and Ron Akers of Van Buren Township discussed data center types, the growth of hyperscale facilities and the role of artificial intelligence in driving demand. They also outlined potential community benefits, including infrastructure investments and community benefit agreements, alongside risks such as water overuse and power-grid strain.