Google says its 780‑MW AI data center will use renewable power in Minnesota
Google announced plans for a 780‑megawatt AI data center in Pine Island, Minnesota, and a partnership with Xcel Energy that would finance 1,400 MW of wind, 200 MW of solar and 300 MW of battery storage – more capacity than the center itself needs. Google says it will pay for at least 75% of the contracted power and will remain on the hook for minimum demand charges for up to eight years if it…
Key points
- Google plans a 780‑MW AI data center in Pine Island, Minnesota, financing 1,400 MW wind, 200 MW solar and 300 MW battery storage.
- Google will cover at least 75% of contracted capacity and may owe up to eight years of minimum demand charges if it exits early.
- Surveys show 71% of Americans oppose local data centers and half view them as bad for the environment, fueling skepticism.
Public sentiment is wary. A Gallup poll in March found 71% of Americans oppose a data center in their neighborhood, and a Pew Research survey later that year showed half of respondents view data centers as harmful to the environment and household energy costs. Experts such as Jigar Shah and David Pomerantz note that while the model could lower overall rates by spreading fixed grid costs, utilities also stand to earn high returns on new infrastructure. Google’s global head of energy, Amanda Peterson Corio, calls the timing “perfect” for modernizing the aging U.S. grid.
Google says it can build data centers the right way. Some experts and residents are skeptical
CNBC Technology · 19 October 2026
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