North Dakotans Express High Concern Over Data Centers' Impact on Electricity Bills and Water Supply
A recent North Dakota Poll, sponsored by the North Dakota News Cooperative, reveals significant public concern regarding the development of new data centers in the state. The poll found that 76% of respondents are worried about data centers increasing electricity bills, with 49% expressing very high concern. Similar levels of apprehension exist regarding water usage, as 76% of respondents fear that data center operations could strain local water systems, and 45% are very concerned about this issue. The highest concentration of concern about electricity bills was noted in Fargo and Cass County, where 54% were very concerned. Furthermore, 42% of respondents indicated greater concern about the water and electricity demands of AI data centers compared to traditional data centers. State Representative Zachary Ista (D-Grand Forks) highlighted that these concerns about risks outweigh public optimism about potential job creation (19% view as important) and local tax revenue (23% view as very important). Overall, 4...
