Data centers are the going topic of the day. Water and electricity consumption along with the tax incentives sum up much of the opposition to these sites. Tuesday, I attended an interim study that detailed some of the concerns about data centers.
Officials with the Southwest Power Pool, Public Service Company of Oklahoma and OGE spoke about grid demands and rates. Google presented facts and figures from hyperscalers. The Department of Environmental Quality and the Oklahoma Water Resources Board detailed the permitting process, the environmental effects and water usage data. Afternoon presenters were set to talk about economic and tax impacts and what local communities can expect before a project is built.
The study was ongoing as I finished this column, so I’ll be able to share more detailed information in the future. One presenter, however discussed data center myths versus facts, insisting that modern data centers lower electric rates for families and use no water for cooling as well as meet residential noise ordinances. Municipalities or counties would want to verify these facts before signing, but this is encouraging.
I do understand a data center is being located near Chouteau with no tax incentives offered. This center is projected to generate $50 million in taxes a year, which would be significant to the local economies. This may be the solution: for the centers to produce their own water and electricity and receive zero tax abatements.
Last week, I attended a fundraiser hosted by Oklahoma’s Electric Cooperatives. “Shoot for The Nations” was held at a clay shooting range. It was fun competing as money was raised for these cooperatives to continue funding their projects in other countries that have no electricity. Pretty sure we didn’t win, but it was fun trying.
Finally, last week the Wilburton Eastern Oklahoma State College community stepped up with a fundraiser for the victims of a tragic accident in which an EOSC student lost his life as well as two others who suffered severe injuries. I believe the “Oklahoma Standard” was evident as the community rallied around these accident victims.
As always, thank you for allowing me to serve. If I can help you in any way, I can be reached at (405) 557-7381 or by email at jim.grego@okhouse.gov.
Jim Grego serves District 17 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. His district includes Latimer County and part and Pittsburg County.
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