Google and Xcel Energy propose 780-megawatt data center in Pine Island, Minnesota
Google and Xcel Energy are proposing a roughly 780-megawatt AI data center in Pine Island, Minnesota, paired with additional wind, solar and battery capacity. The arrangement is intended to prevent local ratepayers from bearing the project’s energy costs while expanding cleaner power, but it still requires approval from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission amid broader public opposition to data centers.
Google and Xcel Energy have proposed a roughly 780-megawatt AI data center in Pine Island, Minnesota. Under the proposed arrangement, Xcel would add more wind, solar and battery capacity than the facility itself requires, with the utility saying the additional generation would support local customers and advance a cleaner energy supply.
The discussion highlighted concerns about electricity demand, infrastructure costs and the possibility that ratepayers could subsidize data center development. The agreement remains subject to approval by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission. The segment also noted broad public opposition to local data centers, including concerns about energy use, costs and potential noise impacts, while acknowledging that utilities have financial incentives to invest in new infrastructure.