Google signs data center deal which includes a 20-year commitment to add new clean power

Google has announced a new data center deal in Michigan, partnering with DTE Energy, with significant implications for the local economy and sustainability. As part of the 20-year contract, Google will fund 2.7GW of new clean energy capacity, including solar and battery storage, which is expected to nearly triple the data center's anticipated 1GW energy consumption. This initiative aims to provide cleaner energy sources for Michigan, a state historically dependent on coal. Will Conkling, Google's Americas Clean Energy and Power Director, stated that the company is also introducing a $10 million Energy Impact Fund. This fund will support energy affordability initiatives in Michigan communities, focusing on home weatherization, efficiency technologies, and energy workforce development. Google will also cover the costs for upgrading necessary infrastructure to deliver electricity to the new data center campus. While Google has not yet confirmed the exact location for the site, it is currently assessing a location in Van Buren Township, a western suburb of Detroit. The data center is projected to become operational in late 2027 or 2028.