Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds says data centers could provide a significant economic opportunity for rural Iowa, as communities across the state consider the potential benefits and impacts of the growing industry.
Reynolds spoke with KILJ about data centers during her visit to Mount Pleasant Thursday.
She says decisions about whether to allow data centers ultimately belong to local communities, but she believes they present an opportunity, particularly for rural Iowa.
Reynolds says communities considering data center development should make sure the companies building the facilities are paying for the infrastructure and electricity they use.
She also says developers should be adding capacity and strengthening the electrical grid, rather than passing those costs on to consumers.
Reynolds says the potential benefits go beyond the initial construction of a facility, pointing to ongoing jobs and economic growth.
Reynolds says communities should ask questions when considering a data center and make sure taxpayers aren’t left paying for the infrastructure needed to support the development.
She says if developers are paying those costs, adding capacity to the electrical grid and bringing new jobs and investment to the community, data centers could be a real advantage for rural Iowa.