How Colorado Can Mandate Data Center Transparency

Abstract

A lack of monitoring, reporting, and transparency of data centers’ impacts have led to a near-complete loss in public support and trust in the development of data centers in Colorado and across the U.S. And no wonder: Data centers require irrevocable amounts of electricity and water, can increase air and noise pollution, and become permanent heat islands for surrounding communities. In this memo we recommend steps Colorado should take now to build an essential foundation for responsible data center development. We believe most Coloradans want data center development to be stewards of natural resources and deliver public benefits. To this end, we recommend the reporting of electricity usage and water usage, as well as fenceline monitoring of air quality and temperature. We also advocate for an independent investigation into infrasound noise pollution for data centers near residences and schools. To start, we must improve our fundamental understanding of data centers’ impacts on Colorado communities so that we can enable more evidence-informed decisionmaking for policymakers, utility companies, and people living near existing or proposed data centers. This is an important time for action.