We should be cautious about allowing data centers in Vermont because the costs may outweigh the benefits. Data centers use huge amounts of electricity. This could drive the cost of electricity up for everyone. It could also require electric companies to upgrade their infrastructure and that burden might fall upon all users. There are many examples of huge rate hikes happening across the country due to data centers, including on the East Coast.

Data centers use enormous amounts of water for cooling purposes and how they manage the supply of water could cause environmental problems and strain local infrastructure. Large data centers typically use 1 to 5 million gallons of water per day. Using this amount of water strains municipal water systems. Tech companies that dig their own wells lower the water table, causing private wells to go dry and drain the aquifers used by towns for their water systems. If they are using backup generators that burn fossil fuels, they would add to the overall carbon emissions in Vermont when the power goes out. Data centers also bring lots of noise and light pollution to whatever community they are located in.

Data center supporters often cite jobs as a reason to support them, but the jobs associated with data centers are mostly temporary construction jobs, not permanent jobs. Data centers operate with a minimum number of staff, typically 4-10 employees for a small data center.

Vermont’s economy and identity are built on strong communities, a healthy environment, and responsible growth. Before inviting data centers into the state, we should establish clear rules that protect ratepayers, natural resources, and local communities. Vermont should prioritize investments that create more long-term jobs and broader benefits while preserving the quality of life that makes our state unique.