TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. – A groundswell of concern over the rapid development of data centers is rising up north.
A collection of environmental groups and community leaders want Northern Michigan residents to learn more about the risks of cryptocurrency mining and the development of data centers to power artificial intelligence technology.
This comes as developers have eyed at least 16 sites in 10 counties in the Lower Peninsula for power-hungry server warehouses supporting AI and cloud computing. Noise from a cryptocurrency mining outfit in Sault Ste. Marie has already prompted a lawsuit.
The crypto and data center opponents have planned a trio of public meetings for Sunday evening, Jan. 18, across the Upper Peninsula. There also will be a virtual option for residents of the northern Lower Peninsula.
The meetings will explain how crypto-mining and data centers impact energy demand and rates, water resources, climate goals and the character of rural communities. Participants will learn how to share their thoughts on the subject with their local and state leaders.
Related: Amid polarization, opposition to Michigan data centers cuts across political lines
Those who attend will hear presentations from local leaders and regional advocacy groups like Clean Water Action, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter and Keweenaw Mutual Aid Collective.
Organizers said there will be time for questions and discussion.
Planned speakers include representatives from Michigan United Action, Up North Advocacy, Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council, as well as local school and governmental leaders. Former state Rep. Jenn Hill is also scheduled to speak.
All sessions, including the virtual option, will begin at 7 p.m.
Registration is required for the informational briefings:
- Eastern U.P.: East Superior Room, Lake Superior State University, Sault Ste. Marie; register online here.
- Central U.P.: Whitman Commons, Northern Michigan University, Marquette; register online here.
- Western U.P.: Orpheum Theater, Hancock; register online here.
- Virtual: Register here.
- Otherwise, RSVP by sending email to ncac@berlinrosen.com.
