‘They're bullish on data centers, and they should be’: Nebraska Chamber president talks pros and cons of data center development

Joseph Young, the new president and CEO of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, discussed the economic landscape of Nebraska, including the state's approach to data center development. Speaking with Dale Johnson of Nebraska Public Media, Young expressed optimism about the state's economic growth despite budget deficits and other challenges. He highlighted that business leaders across the state are focusing on growth, addressing issues like housing shortages and daycare policy.

Young noted that data centers are attractive to government entities due to substantial tax revenue and high-paying jobs. He cited positive economic analyses, including significant housing growth, lower unemployment rates, and higher job growth in counties with data centers. While acknowledging concerns about high energy and water consumption, Young asserted that Nebraska has ample water and energy resources. He also mentioned a bill passed by the Nebraska Legislature that allows large data centers to generate their own power and sell surplus energy to public power utilities, addressing growing energy demands from both data centers and other industrial users.

Young elaborated on the energy infrastructure challenges, emphasizing that data centers, as consistent and predictable energy users, can help stabilize utility rates. He concluded by expressing confidence in the state's utilities to manage infrastructure development, stressing the need for collaboration with large industrial users to enhance energy generation.