Metro Edge

Data Centers Are Popping Up Everywhere In Chicago. Here's Where — And Why They're Controversial

Chicago is rapidly becoming a major hub for data center development, but this growth is sparking controversy due to concerns over high electricity and water consumption, noise, and tax incentives. Mayor Brandon Johnson has issued an executive order imposing new rules and reviews on data centers, while the state of Illinois is also considering regulations and recently paused tax incentives. Opposition is forming against some proposed projects.