data centers

Large data centers are coming to Missouri, and they need a lot of power. Right now, there aren't regulations governing how they will use energy, so Evergy and Ameren is working to develop new rules.

A proposed data center caused a public outcry in recent weeks in St. Charles, Missouri, with residents criticizing the secrecy around the project and its potential to contaminate water.

Leaders say the LEED Gold-certified data center bolsters Kansas City's reputation as a tech hub. Operated by the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, the facility also expects to support more than 100 permanent jobs.

The developer has withdrawn an application for a permit for a St. Charles data center, according to Mayor Dan Borgmeyer. Crowds of residents have turned out to public meetings to oppose the data center over its energy use and effect on water quality.

An unknown company is seeking zoning approvals for a 440-acre data center in St. Charles, Missouri, but it's attracted strong opposition from residents worried about their water safety and energy prices.

The majority of St. Louis' electricity comes from coal, which emits a lot of climate-warming greenhouse gases. To meet its climate goals, Mastercard is building its own solar field next to its O'Fallon data center.

Data centers are expanding across the central U.S. to meet growing demand for artificial intelligence. That's raising concerns about growing energy demand and freshwater usage.