Nebraska data center leaders talk natural resource protection, responsible development
Nebraska data center leaders discussed water use, electricity demand, community opposition and responsible development at a renewable energy conference. More than a dozen Nebraska counties have enacted moratoriums on new data centers, while state and local officials are developing regulations and safeguards; Google also announced a $6 million contribution for Omaha-area utility customers and infrastructure.
Panelists at the Nebraska Wind and Solar Conference described data center development as both an economic opportunity and a source of concern over groundwater, power demand and community impacts. Kearney Mayor Jonathan Nikkila said public input helped the city establish expectations and regulations, while Papio-Missouri Natural Resources District General Manager John Winkler said Nebraska’s existing safeguards and municipal water requirements provide protection for groundwater resources.
More than a dozen Nebraska counties have imposed moratoriums on new data centers, while others are reconsidering zoning rules and preparing development standards. State measures include limits on tax incentives, community-benefit requirements and legislation allowing private developers to generate power for industrial customers. Google energy market development lead Chris Matos discussed the company’s water and energy initiatives, including a recently announced $6 million contribution benefiting Omaha Public Power District customers, leak detection and clean-energy investments.