Wisconsin researchers track data center energy usage
The Wisconsin Policy Forum is studying the energy consumption of data centers in Wisconsin, noting that these facilities are reversing a long-term trend of decreasing statewide energy use. Public opposition has led to the cancellation of several data center proposals, including high-profile projects in DeForest and Janesville.
The Wisconsin Policy Forum is actively tracking the energy usage of data centers within Wisconsin as new facilities are being proposed and critics voice concerns over their power consumption. Tyler Byrnes, a senior research associate with the forum, highlighted that Wisconsin had experienced a 9% decrease in energy use over the last 25 years until the recent increase in data center development.
According to Byrnes, the growing opposition to data center proposals in recent months has resulted in a decline in new development announcements. Several projects have been canceled, including significant proposals in DeForest and Janesville, following an initial flurry of announcements in the spring.