Google Data Center Could Use More Electricity Than All of Lincoln

A proposed Google data center project in Nebraska could bring one of the largest technology facilities in the country to the state, but it would also require an enormous amount of electricity. According to documents obtained by the Flat Waterfree Press, the proposed facility could require between 1,000 and 3,000 megawatts of power - more than the entire Lincoln electric system's peak demand of about 800 megawatts. The project outlines Google operating the data center, with the Omaha-based energy developer Tanasca potentially responsible for generating electricity, possibly through a privately built natural gas power plant. The infrastructure company Tall Grass Energy could supply the natural gas and transport any captured carbon emissions. Large data centers also require significant cooling systems and water usage, though the exact water demand for this Nebraska facility has not been disclosed. The project is still in early stages, but if it moves forward, it could force a major debate in Nebraska about the state's public power system and infrastructure needs for the next generation of AI.