North Dakota Legislature Urged to Address Data Center Development
North Dakota is experiencing a boom in data center development, exemplified by a 900-acre Applied Digital facility near Harwood. While these projects bring economic benefits, they also raise concerns about water usage, power consumption, and environmental impact. The Grand Forks Herald editorial board urges the North Dakota Legislature to establish new rules and guidance for data center oversight, lamenting that a proposed moratorium was not included in an upcoming special session.
North Dakota is facing a surge in data center development, prompting calls for state legislative action to oversee these projects. The Grand Forks Herald editorial board highlights the construction of a massive 900-acre facility by Applied Digital near Harwood as evidence of the industry's growth due to the state's ample space, cool temperatures, and water resources.
While recognizing the economic benefits and tax dividends data centers offer, the editorial board notes public concerns regarding their water usage, electricity consumption, and environmental impact. It advocates for the North Dakota Legislature to establish new guidelines to help local governments manage the complexities that arise from data center proposals.
The editorial criticizes the rejection of a proposal to include a possible data center moratorium on the agenda for an upcoming special legislative session, which was called to address issues related to kratom. Although the moratorium will not be discussed during the special session, the Herald urges lawmakers to prepare for comprehensive discussions on data center-related issues when the next full legislative session convenes in January.