New Toolkit Helps Communities Push Again In opposition to Massive Tech As Knowledge Heart Proposals Surge In Wisconsin

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MADISON, Wisconsin – A new toolkit is out there to assist Wisconsinites take motion to guard their communities as Massive Tech firms proceed to look to construct energy-hungry hyperscale information facilities within the state. “Hyperscale Knowledge Facilities in Wisconsin: Massive Tech Unchecked” offers data for individuals to study extra about information facilities, information facilities’ excessive useful resource use, potential penalties for native residents, and the way communities can rise collectively to make sure guardrails are applied for proposed hyperscale information middle initiatives.

“I’m so completely happy to have this toolkit obtainable to assist me assess the impacts of any new proposed information facilities and assist me perceive what to do if an information middle is launched close to me,” stated Gloria Randall-Hewit, Racine resident.

A webinar will probably be held on January 13 at 6 PM to stroll via the toolkit and reply group questions on the way to take motion.

The toolkit’s authors launched the next statements: 

Elizabeth Ward, Chapter Director, Sierra Membership Wisconsin: “Folks throughout the state are rightfully involved about Massive Tech coming to Wisconsin communities and utilizing our pure sources to energy their AI information facilities. We’ve gotten questions from of us from throughout on what they’ll do to cease Massive Tech from extracting their group’s sources and placing them in danger for larger utility prices. This toolkit offers sensible options that any individual and any group can do. After we work collectively, we’re stronger than Massive Tech.”

Brittany Keyes, Clear Air Coverage Supervisor, Wholesome Local weather Wisconsin: “The fast, unchecked enlargement of hyperscale information middle proposals is regarding for the well being of our lands, waters, and communities. From rising air air pollution to rising electrical energy costs, hyperscale information facilities are going to pressure already overburdened communities throughout Wisconsin. This toolkit offers group members with sources and advocacy assist, in order that group well being might be centered and guarded within the face of those proposals.”

Meleesa Johnson, Govt Director, Inexperienced Hearth Wisconsin: “Folks and communities who’re well-informed, collaborate successfully, and have entry to applicable sources are finest positioned to plan for and deal with rising challenges such because the impacts of information facilities. This toolkit serves as one huge step towards empowering stakeholders in that work.”

Michael Greif, Authorized Fellow, Midwest Environmental Advocates: “When an information middle proposal involves your group, getting concerned within the decision-making course of early on is crucial. The sources on this toolkit will equip you with the instruments you have to perceive the problems, advocate for transparency, take part within the allowing course of and affect the selections that have an effect on you and your neighbors.”

What’s subsequent for information facilities in Wisconsin?

Upcoming choices will decide whether or not a few of the considerations outlined within the toolkit might be mitigated. Within the spring, the Public Service Fee will decide how a lot of the power infrastructure prices We Energies and Alliant clients will probably be requested to pay for.

Moreover, native governments are making choices on particular information middle proposals. Listed here are the upcoming occasions across the proposals: