I am all for data centers. High paying jobs. New economy. Fairly green. Or are they? HERE IS an interesting article from today’s Colorado Sun. Apparently, they are energy and water pigs. In summary…
The rise in data centers in Colorado has sparked environmental and electric rate concerns. In the coming years, these centers are expected to triple in capacity, necessitating more power and water.
Although efforts to lure data centers with tax incentives and reduced electric rates are in place, some question their need. The surge in power demand could potentially affect the power grid and the state’s environmental targets. Concerns over water usage, primarily for cooling in data centers, are growing, especially in water-scarce areas.
Look, I am all for pursuing cleaner, forward thinking jobs. Data centers present a great opportunity. However, they come at a time when the state legislature wants to electrify everything via mandate and replace efficient and clean burning natural gas with nothin’ but renewables. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: We just can’t get there from here.
And what about the state of the power grid? Well, it ain’t good. You have to read THIS from Roger Pielke. I’ll borrow a couple of his charts.
I’m no expert, but I can see that we’re not building any new transmission lines, but the demand for electricity is increasing. And what if the dems get their way and actually do electrify everything?
We need adults in the room. And natural gas. And nuclear power. Just sayin’.
