With several data centers planned for communities across the Miami Valley, some people are voicing concerns about the potential drain of water and electricity near their homes and businesses.
Both resources are used by average citizens every day. Data centers use them daily as well, but at a much, much higher rate.
Part 1: Rise of data centers in Miami Valley stirring strong emotions
But how much energy does it take to keep the lights on at these facilities, and how much water does it take to keep the servers cool?
Local leaders are asking these questions and voicing concerns about the potential toll on these key resources.
Data centers: A shocking amount of electricity
Electricity is the first thing people worry about when it comes to data centers. According to Mary Ann Kabel with AES Ohio, data centers bring with them a need for upgrades to the current electric grids to handle increased demand.
“With these large requests for data centers, those investments take on large loads, and they use a lot of energy,” she says…