$57-billion Illinois data centre projects could create 39,000 construction jobs
A new study projects that $57 billion in planned Illinois data center development could create 39,000 construction jobs, 3,000 permanent jobs and more than $300 million in annual property tax revenue. Researchers also warn that rising electricity demand, water consumption and infrastructure needs will require stronger clean-energy, environmental and efficiency policies.
A study from the Illinois Economic Policy Institute and the Project for Middle Class Renewal at the University of Illinois estimates that Illinois could see $57 billion in data center investment over the next decade. The construction pipeline could generate about 39,000 skilled construction jobs, 3,000 permanent positions and more than 41,000 additional jobs through supply chains and local spending.
Researchers also forecast nearly $300 million in annual property tax revenue and cited an operating data center in DeKalb that generates more than $30 million annually, including funding for public schools. The report identifies electricity demand, water use and infrastructure as key challenges, noting that data centers already account for about 7% of Illinois electricity consumption.
The study recommends additional clean power supplies, developer-funded energy infrastructure, recycled-water and air-cooling systems, battery storage and stronger environmental standards. Gov. JB Pritzker suspended Illinois data center sales tax exemptions in June, while study co-author Robert Bruno said reasonable safeguards could preserve the sector's economic benefits while protecting taxpayers, ratepayers and natural resources.