By Emma Oonk, Environmental Policy Intern. June 6, 2024
WMEAC hosted a press conference earlier this week at Michigan’s largest data center, Switch Grand Rapids, highlighting concerns with pending legislation due to the lack of environmental protections. Senate Bills 237 and 238 provide tax incentives for data centers built in Michigan and do not include environmental safeguards. Updating SB 237 and SB 238 to include regulations on water usage and renewable energy requirements is essential to minimize data centers’ heavy environmental footprint.
Data centers have a significant environmental impact due to their high energy and water usage. They require significant power to run servers and maintain optimal operating temperatures, with the increasing number of data centers expected to double energy consumption by 2030, contributing to a larger carbon footprint. An average data center also uses over 300,000 gallons of water per day to cool its equipment. This water-intensive process can strain local water resources, especially during periods of drought.
Current energy and water infrastructure often cannot support the increased demand data centers require, increasing the risk of data centers passing higher costs onto residents. Protections for residents against unexpected increased energy rates can be included in the updated legislation in addition to environmental protections.
WMEAC urges legislators to integrate these environmental regulations into SB 237 and SB 238 to preserve Michigan’s natural resources, promote public health, and drive economic growth through innovation and sustainable practices. Taking action will ensure our state can continue being an environmental leader, guaranteeing Michigan data centers are not only efficient and reliable but also environmentally responsible.
The House is currently considering SB 237 after being passed by the Senate, and SB 238 is awaiting a vote on the Senate floor. WMEAC encourages the community to contact your senator here to highlight the environmental concerns with SB 238.
