In 2025, Washtenaw County, MI, saw a surge in proposals for hyperscale data centers, driven by tech giants seeking to enhance AI and computing capabilities. Amidst tax incentives and access to resources, projects like OpenAI’s “Stargate” data center faced significant community opposition, including protests regarding its construction in Saline Township. The Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) conditionally approved power contracts for the site, raising concerns about potential impacts on local utility bills. Meanwhile, a proposed Meta-backed data center in Howell Township was withdrawn, reflecting local resistance. Additionally, residents in Augusta Township mobilized to allow voters to weigh in on a contentious data center proposal. New initiatives are also on the horizon, with the University of Michigan planning a high-performance computing facility. As communities grapple with the implications of these developments, the demand for regulations on future data centers grows, highlighting the ongoing tensions between technological advancement and local interests.
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