Dairyland Power CEO Says Data Centers Are “Path to Prosperity,” at Meeting in La Crosse

Dairyland Power CEO says data centers are “path to prosperity,” at meeting in La Crosse

The growth of data centers, especially in small towns and rural areas, has become a concern around the U.S. Members of the Dairyland Power Co-op discussed data centers and energy needs during their annual meeting Tuesday in La Crosse. Dairyland CEO Brent Ridge said the buildings can be helpful to the power company and to local economies. “We think data centers are a path to prosperity in these small communities,” Ridge said. “And if we don’t al…

Fueling Rural Prosperity on Rural Terms - NationSwell

Rural communities are seeing renewed interest from outside capital — data centers, manufacturing sites, energy infrastructure, and more – promising jobs and tax base growth. But these investments often come with tradeoffs: land taken out of agricultural use, heavy demands on water and energy systems, and decisions made far from the people most affected. Together with leaders from business, philanthropy, and the social sector, participants took p…