The Wisconsin Policy Forum is examining the energy consumption of data centers amid concerns about their impact on the state’s power usage. Tyler Byrnes, a senior research associate, noted a 9% decrease in energy use over the past 25 years, stating that electricity consumption had been declining until data centers emerged.
However, recent pushback against data center developments has led to a decrease in proposed projects, with notable cancellations in DeForest and Janesville. This shift reflects growing tension regarding the balance between technological development and energy sustainability.