Data center discussions highlight water usage and grid reliability in Lansing

Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research hosted a discussion on Tuesday in Lansing, focusing on how data centers affect the state’s electrical grid and water usage.

Dr. Erik Nordman, director of the Institute of Public Utilities, emphasized that a more reliable electricity system benefits all residents, while Jean Hardy, associate director of the Quello Center, noted that many new data centers aim to conserve water, citing the proposed Google facility in Van Buren Township that could use over two million gallons per day.

Environmental groups, including the Sierra Club of Michigan and Clean Water Action, held a parallel conference at the Capitol, urging greater transparency and regulatory support for data center development, with leaders such as Marta Johnson and Amanda Robert calling for accountable protections and clearer information for communities.

Read the full story at wilx.com.