County considers energy zoning; business owner urges distinctions

Burnett County, Wisconsin, is actively developing a new I-2 Tech-Energy Industrial District to establish a comprehensive permitting framework for large-scale energy and technology facilities, including data centers, solar farms, wind energy systems, and battery storage. The county's existing industrial zoning was not designed for these uses, prompting the need for new, clear standards before major proposals emerge, according to Committee Chairman Craig Conroy. The proposed district would require a minimum of 40 acres for rezoning, and facilities generating over one megawatt would need a conditional use permit.

Tim D’Jock, president of INNOV8tec, Inc., advocated for distinct regulatory standards for solar projects and data centers, emphasizing their fundamental differences in scale and impact. He highlighted that utility-scale solar typically generates around 5 megawatts, while data centers demand 150 megawatts or more, far exceeding the county’s current electrical grid capacity. D’Jock also noted his company’s efforts to partner with local utilities to upgrade the county’s aging electrical infrastructure, suggesting that solar and battery storage could enhance grid reliability and attract significant investment without taxpayer cost.

Committee members acknowledged the need for sharper definitions and discussed incorporating water contamination concerns, particularly regarding closed-loop data center cooling systems, following conversations with tribal representatives. They also recognized that the county’s abundant water supply and cooler climate could eventually attract data center developers, despite current grid limitations. Zoning Administrator Jason Towne is preparing a revised draft for the July meeting, taking into account committee feedback and Milwaukee’s data center categorization, with a public hearing slated for the fall.