$20B Data Center outside Chicago Receives Approval Boost

A planning commission in Joliet has recommended the approval of a $20 billion data center to be developed by PowerHouse Data Centers. The proposal includes the annexation of a 795-acre site and will feature 24 two-story data center buildings, each with 144,500 square feet of space. Alongside the data center, a six-acre substation will be constructed to support its estimated power capacity of 1.8 gigawatts. The development aims to generate over $310 million in property taxes and $40 million in utility taxes over 30 years, with claims of contributing $2.1 billion in local tax revenue.

The project's recommendation comes amidst significant local opposition, with residents expressing concerns over its environmental and community impact. The final decision will be made by the Joliet City Council on March 16. If approved, this data center could enhance regional data infrastructure significantly while emphasizing local economic contributions without relying on economic incentives, thereby maintaining a degree of autonomy in its operational needs.