Gaines Township proposed data center: What to know before the April 15 public hearing

Microsoft is seeking to develop a data center in Gaines Charter Township, Michigan, on 316 acres purchased from Steelcase for $45.3 million. The tech giant has submitted a request to the Gaines Charter Township Planning Commission to rezone 40.5 acres from "large-scale planned unit development" to "light industrial" to facilitate the project, which, if approved, would be the second data center in the township. Ahead of an April 15th public hearing, the Planning Commission has outlined a series of conditions that Microsoft has agreed to address concerns raised by the community. These conditions include Microsoft not applying for local property tax abatements, complying with electricity rate regulations to protect residential ratepayers, and collaborating with Consumers Energy on grid improvements. Furthermore, Microsoft will connect to the Byron-Gaines Water System for operational needs, avoid groundwater withdrawal for cooling through water-efficient designs, and cover water infrastructure upgrades. Environmental compliance is also a key focus, with Microsoft committing to adhere to air emission and water discharge regulations set by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The company has also agreed to measures regarding decommissioning responsibility, sound limits (65 dBA during normal operations), visual screening with an 8-foot landscaped berm, specific lighting standards, and a minimum 150-foot setback for buildings. Additionally, Microsoft will donate 9.5 acres of land for open space and trail connections to mitigate the loss of open space. Consumers Energy Senior Vice President Lauren Snyder stated that large customers like Microsoft help lower rates for all by spreading fixed costs.