Data Centers in Minnesota

Data centers are rapidly expanding across the country as demand for cloud computing and artificial intelligence grows. These facilities require millions of gallons of water each year for cooling, as well as significant amounts of electricity to operate.

Cooling units on the top of an industrial data center

In regions already facing water scarcity or water quality challenges, this level of resource use can place additional strain on local communities and ecosystems. As of 2026, Minnesota is already home to 61 data centers, making these concerns increasingly relevant to our state’s future.

Clean Water Action partners with impacted communities and coalition allies in Minnesota to raise awareness and advance innovative policies that safeguard our water and public health. This work includes facilitating community conversations, guiding legislation through the policymaking process, and planning for a future that prioritizes equitable access to clean, healthy water and reliable electricity for generations to come. 

Publications

Data Centers - A Threat To Minnesota's Water

Data centers are popping up across the country as the dependency on cloud computing and Artificial Intelligence increases. These centers require millions of gallons of water and huge amounts of electricity each year to cool the facility and run efficiently. Minnesotans shouldn’t be left on the hook for multi-billion-dollar companies seeking tax breaks to run facilities that not only monopolize but also poison our water.
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