New coalition aims to help Michigan cities navigate data center concerns

A new coalition has been launched in Michigan with the goal of assisting cities in navigating the complexities surrounding data center development. Announced on a Thursday, the group comprises labor unions, engineers, and local government advocates. Its primary objective is to furnish fact-based information on data centers to local decision-makers, countering potentially outdated or biased information originating from other states. The coalition seeks to address common neighbor concerns, such as energy and water usage, and to ensure that data centers are not overusing resources or leading to adverse impacts. The Michigan Public Service Commission is also a relevant entity in this discussion, as it has specific tariffs requiring large load customers, which include data centers, to pay for the incremental infrastructure necessary to serve their power demands. Advocates hope this initiative will help Michigan become a leader in responsible data center development and alleviate pressure on communities grappling with these complex issues.