Data Centers in South Dakota
Data Centers & Our Communities
South Dakota is quickly becoming a hotspot for massive data centers.
These energy-intensive facilities are reshaping how our electricity is used, how our land is zoned, and how tax dollars are spent. Communities across the state deserve a voice in what comes next.
Where dra stands
- Decisions must be locally-driven.
- Local governments need tools and support to evaluate proposals.
- Public dollars must serve the public good.
- Transparency is non-negotiable.
Core Community Concerns
🏠 Property Rights
These facilities can bring zoning changes, land buyouts, and disruptions to rural life. What rights do local residents have?
⚡Electric Grid & Ratepayer Impacts
Data centers use enormous amounts of electricity. That infrastructure may be paid for by us, the public.
💸 Tax Breaks & Incentives
Major corporate tax exemptions are common. Are local communities seeing a fair return on their investment?
📉 Local Control
Many deals are struck behind closed doors. Residents deserve a seat at the table before decisions are made.
Supporting Local Efforts
We’re working alongside residents in areas where data centers have been proposed or are already breaking ground. If you want to get involved in your region, we’re here to help.
News Coverage
- New AI Data Center Wave Could Transform Rural South Dakota, Advocates Say | SDPB
- LA-Based Company Looking to Build Data Center in Sioux Falls | SDPB
- Proposed Leola Data Center could fund area emergency services | SDPB
- Rotary talks AI data centers in South Dakota | Kelo
- Data centers: Harmful to planet or good for economy? | Kelo
- Data Center Official Says Other States Offer Better Incentives Than SD | SD Searchlight
- Applied Digital Proposes Multi-Billion Dollar Data Center in South Dakota | Datacenter Dynamics
- Data Center Official Says Other States Offer Better Incentives Than SD | SD Searchlight
- Massive data centers consuming large amounts of energy have eyes on South Dakota | SD Searchlight
