Data Center Signal is tracking 3 clips about Alliant data center developments across 2 states, including IA, WI.
This article discusses the increasing reliance on data centers for modern life despite growing local opposition. It highlights a patchwork of regulatory responses in Iowa, including moratoriums enacted in Linn, Dubuque, and Fairfax counties/cities, and specific zoning ordinances in Linn County and Palo.
An opinion piece argues that Iowa is becoming overly dependent on natural gas to power new data centers, leading to potential price shocks and infrastructure bottlenecks. The author advocates for state and local policymakers to implement measures like banning non-disclosure agreements, requiring new large-load tariffs for data centers, and mandating curtailment plans to prevent peak load outages. The article suggests prioritizing renewable energy, particularly solar and storage, to meet electricity demand.
American Transmission Company (ATC) plans to invest over $2 billion in new transmission infrastructure across Wisconsin to serve data centers, including those for Microsoft, Meta, and Vantage. Critics, such as the Citizens Utility Board, are concerned that the current cost-sharing structure will burden other ratepayers, while utilities maintain data centers will fully cover related transmission expenses. The Public Service Commission and FERC are involved in ongoing tariff cases to determine how these costs will be managed.