WEC Energy Group CEO hints at plans for more data centers as public opposition grows - BizTimes
WEC Energy Group CEO Scott Lauber revealed the company is in advanced discussions for additional large data center projects in Wisconsin, beyond current developments in Mount Pleasant and Port Washington. This announcement comes amid increasing public resistance to data center expansion in the region. Microsoft is concurrently building a $7.3 billion campus in Mount Pleasant.
WEC Energy Group CEO Scott Lauber indicated the utility is engaging in "really good discussions" with potential large customers for additional data center projects in Wisconsin. These prospective developments would supplement existing data center initiatives in Mount Pleasant and Port Washington, where Microsoft is currently constructing a $7.3 billion campus on a site initially designated for Foxconn.
Lauber's comments highlight WEC Energy Group's strategy to expand its portfolio of large energy consumers, specifically targeting the growing data center sector. The announcement of potential new projects coincides with increasing public opposition to data center growth in the region. While the specific nature of the opposition is not detailed, the article implies a broader sentiment against the expansion of these energy-intensive facilities.