What to know about the huge electric power demands from Wisconsin data centers

Data centers are poised to dramatically escalate electricity demand in Wisconsin, a trend mirrored across the U.S., prompting significant environmental and policy discussions. Projections indicate that the electricity consumption from data centers could triple by 2028, with specific projects, such as Microsoft's in Mount Pleasant and Vantage's in Port Washington, anticipated to use more power than all Wisconsin homes combined, according to Clean Wisconsin. This surge is problematic given that approximately 70% of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) grid, which serves Wisconsin, relies on fossil fuels, threatening to increase carbon emissions and slow decarbonization efforts. The rapid growth in data centers could lead to over 41 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions by 2035 in Wisconsin, potentially soaring to 130 million by 2050, exceeding the state's transportation and industrial sectors, as highlighted in a Union of Concerned Scientists report. To mitigate these impacts, experts suggest a shift to clean energy like wind, solar, and battery storage, which could avert billions in public health costs. Data center developers are encouraged to prioritize locations with clean energy and improve facility energy efficiency. In response to these challenges, the Wisconsin Assembly recently passed the Data Center Accountability Act, mandating that data centers source 70% of their energy from renewable sources. We Energies has subsequently proposed extensive energy projects to the Public Service Commission, including seven solar facilities totaling $2.84 billion and 1.1 gigawatts, primarily located in eastern or central Wisconsin, alongside two natural gas plants costing $2.3 billion. Under We Energies' proposal, data centers would bear 75% of the natural gas plants' construction and maintenance costs, with other customers covering the remainder. Furthermore, WEC Energy Group and EnergySolutions are exploring the development of a new nuclear power facility at the decommissioned Kewaunee Power Station site in Kewaunee County, aiming to meet the rising demand, though this project faces a lengthy state and federal approval process and is years from operation. The Public Service Commission is set to evaluate and vote on each proposed energy project independently.