FAQs

What is a data center? Why does it matter to me?

A data center is a facility that houses computer systems and networking equipment used to store, process, and distribute data for businesses, governments, and cloud services. Data centers are essential… Read more

Why are data centers bad?

Data Centers are not bad. They have been around for decades and are quickly evolving. There is an immense amount of false, outdated, or wrongly applied information on data centers… Read more

Why are data centers important?

Data centers are critically important because they form the backbone of the digital world — powering everything from cloud storage and social media to banking, AI, and national infrastructure. Here’s… Read more

How do data centers benefit local communities?

Local benefits can be broken down into 5 general categories : Economic development​ while being a Good Low Maintenance Community Member Hyperscale campuses have capital expenditures often in the BILLIONS… Read more

What factors influence where data centers are built?

 Data centers are typically sited based on the 5 key areas as shown in the below graphic: available land (workable site & trade area), proximity to high-voltage power transmission lines,… Read more

How much water does a data center use, and what factors influence demand?

Not all Data Centers need a lot of water.  Have you ever had your laptop get hot when it’s sitting on your lap? The servers inside a data center are like… Read more

How is wastewater managed?

There can be up to 2 distinct wastewater streams from a Data Center: the domestic wastewater from actions like toilet and sink use, and potentially, industrial cooling wastewater, depending on… Read more

How is power provided to data centers?

Data centers require substantial and reliable power, often necessitating dedicated substations and infrastructure upgrades. Developers typically fund these improvements, and utilities design upgrades to ensure stable service for both new… Read more

Where does the power come from? Is any of it renewable?

Data Centers currently use 4.4% of the Total US electricity, which may grow as high as 12% by 2030.  Data Centers generally are fed off the main power grid for… Read more

Will a data center affect my Power Supply? Will it cause Rolling Brown-outs?

The power consumption of data centers does most often require transmission grid and substation improvements. A series of studies and grid modeling exercises are completed by the Utility and the… Read more

How will it affect my Rates?

Separate rate class for data centers in NW Indiana?  Since 2019, average American household electricity prices have risen 19%. But with inflation-adjusted comparative rise is 4.5%.  Showing that rises in… Read more

Do data centers increase local traffic?

Data centers generate minimal daily traffic compared to other industrial uses, mainly limited to employees and maintenance personnel. Construction phases may temporarily increase traffic, but operational impacts are low.  As… Read more

How much sound do data centers create, and how is it regulated?

The primary sources of sound are HVAC systems and backup generators. Most facilities are designed to mitigate sound impacts through equipment selection, placement, and screening. Noise is regulated by local… Read more

Why do data centers have generators, and how are they regulated?

Backup generators provide emergency power during grid outages to protect critical data. They are typically diesel-fueled, though alternatives are being evaluated. Generators are tested periodically and must comply with air… Read more

Are there electromagnetic field or other health risks associated with data centers?

Data centers, like all electrical facilities, emit electromagnetic fields (EMF). The World Health Organization provides resources on typical EMF exposure, which is generally considered safe in everyday life. For more… Read more

How tall is a data center?

The height of data centers can vary based on the use and the land available. In more densely developed areas, data centers may be taller and the overall footprint smaller.… Read more