Clinton, IA Could Be Home to the Largest Data Center in Iowa

It appears that we in Dubuque have been hyper-cognizant of data center development in the state ever since the public outcry against the prospect of one came to fruition back in May. Now, Clinton, IA is eyeing construction of the largest data center in the state of Iowa.

Recently, Clinton's divided City Council chose not to place a moratorium on any new data center projects. However, a company has come to the city with the proposition of a facility that would require roughly 1,100 acres of private land near Clinton's airport, a move which has divided locals.

Get our free mobile app

Why Data Centers are So Controversial and Problematic:

In recent months, the construction of massive data centers has been approved or proposed all across the United States. With them comes serious concern from local residents about their electricity usage and the sanctity of the environment, including land and water supply. This week, the potential for a data center hit Dubuque and residents immediately vocalized their opposition.

Speaking broadly, these data centers are large facilities that house computer systems for telecommunications and storage. The AI Boom has led to the rapid growth of the industry, and is leading to a strain on electric grids and rising electricity costs for residents. In short, locals bear the brunt of the social and economic impacts, like water and energy use, while those involved with the centers' operation receive the profits.

How Clinton is Handling the Prospect of a Data Center:

The City of Clinton is in the process of crafting an ordinance to guide data center developments and establish standards before authorizing site plans or any formal construction. This comes as QTS Data Centers issued a proposal to the city for a massive structure that would occupy nearly 1,100 acres of farmland.

Clinton Mayor Scott Maddasion revealed that a small group of people are gathering ideas from other city ordinances to help shape one for the city, per The Des Moines Register. He foresees a public hearing in July, where residents can provide their input as well.

Data center ordinances are necessary, for with these data centers comes the issues of water usage, utilities, noise, lighting, storm-water, emergency response, and environmental compliance, to name a few issues.

Why Iowa is an Attractive State for Data Centers:

Due to the wealth of farmland, Iowa has become a hotbed for data center development as these facilities require hundreds of acres of land. A recent Reuters poll revealed that only one-in-three Americans approve of "fast-paced" data center construction tied to artificial intelligence. The overwhelming majority of Americans oppose the construction of a data center in their own community.

QTS is in the process of building a $10 billion facility on the southwest side of Cedar Rapids, which is the largest economic development project in the city's history. With the widespread construction of these massive facilities, some have argued the need for baseline legislation to better protect Iowans and water resources, the likes of which these data centers require a great deal.

Find out more about the potential for a large-scale data center in Clinton, IA on The Des Moines Register's website.