Data Centers in the Great Lakes Region

Data centers are rapidly expanding across the Great Lakes region, bringing significant implications for energy systems, local infrastructure, environmental resources, and regional economies. As investment accelerates, state and local leaders face growing pressure to make informed decisions about siting, energy planning, taxation, and long-term community impacts.

For the first time, comprehensive information on data centers in the Great Lakes region is compiled in one single place, including multiple resources. The goal is to provide a clear, data-driven picture of how the sector is evolving, where growth is occurring, and what it means for electricity demand, environmental sustainability, and economic outcomes. By bringing facility-level data together with regional analysis, this work offers critical insights to support evidence-based policy and planning.

In addition to the full report, the Cooper Center has produced a set of concise fact sheets highlighting key findings at the regional and at the state-level, a policymaker-focused FAQ, and several explainer videos. Together, these materials are designed to make complex issues accessible and actionable for policymakers, practitioners, and the public. All resources are available through the links below.

The Cooper Center gratefully acknowledges the support of The Joyce Foundation for this work. The Joyce Foundation is a Chicago-based, nonpartisan, private foundation that invests in policies and strategies to advance racial equity and economic mobility for the next generation in the Great Lakes region, with a focus on Culture, Democracy, Education & Economic Mobility, Environment, Gun Violence Prevention & Justice Reform, and Journalism. Learn more at http://www.joycefdn.org.