13 WREX launches series examining data center growth and impact

1 articles · Updated · WREX.com · Apr 24

The new 'Decoding Data Centers' series highlights that Illinois has 229 data centers, including 10 in the Stateline area, and over 4,000 nationwide.
Experts note that data centers power nearly all aspects of modern life, from cloud storage to AI, but concerns about their escalating energy and water consumption are increasing among stakeholders.
The series will explore sustainability, local impacts, and misconceptions, emphasizing the need for community awareness as demand for computing power continues to rise with no signs of slowing.

Data centers promise jobs but drain resources. Can communities negotiate a better deal?

Can new regulations tame the data center boom without stifling technological progress?

With tech giants pledging green energy, why do data centers rely on fossil fuels?

As AI doubles energy demand, who will ultimately pay the price for our digital lives?

The digital world's thirst for water is growing. Are we heading for a resource crisis?

Beyond efficiency, can we change our data habits to save the planet?