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Nebraska Data Center Intel
Latest data center news, projects, power and policy across Nebraska — updated daily.
Recent Nebraska data center news
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In Sustainable Data Center Development, Respecting Communities is Key
The data center industry calls for prioritizing sustainable, community-focused site selection.
- Confirmed facts:hyperscale data center count doubled in the last five years, the U.S. accounts for more than half of worldwide compute capacity, reports predict several gigawatts of new capacity completing in 2025 (with more than three projects in North America), and large developments deliver billions in capital investment; vetting commonly starts with 100+ potential sites narrowed to a single candidate.
- Planned/recommended actions: Industry should adopt a site selection philosophy that prioritizes community engagement, meticulous land feasibility assessments, and transparent local collaboration during development; these are presented as recommended best practices rather than enacted policies.
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How we’re making data centers more flexible to benefit power grids
Google has announced progress in implementing demand response capabilities in its data centers, including new agreements with Indiana Michigan Power and Tennessee Valley Authority to target machine learning workloads for energy demand flexibility.
- Demand response agreements with I&M and TVA mark the first use of ML workload targeting to reduce power demand during grid events, building on prior success with Omaha Public Power District.
- Flexible demand solutions are deployed in multiple regions (US, Belgium, Taiwan) to support grid reliability, reduce need for new infrastructure, and integrate with Google’s 24/7 carbon-free energy goals, with ongoing collaboration planned with utilities and industry partners.
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Nation’s Power Operators Warn Congress of a Coming Reliability Shortfall
Seven major U.S. grid operators have raised alarms about an impending capacity crunch due to rapidly increasing demand driven by data centers, manufacturing, and electrification. During a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee hearing on March 25, 2025, top grid officials testified that without urgent reforms, the reliability of electric service could falter. They indicated an alarming discrepancy between rising demand and the rate at which electricity generation resources are being retired.
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Enel, Meta Announce PPA for Oklahoma Wind Farm
US-based Enel North America announced a new power purchase agreement (PPA) for a 115-MW portion of the Rockhaven wind farm located in Oklahoma. This marks the third PPA between Enel and Meta, building on their existing collaborations from previous wind farms in Nebraska and Illinois. Enel continues to expand its portfolio, executing over 100 PPAs representing more than 7.3 GW of contracted capacity to meet increasing corporate demand for renewable energy.
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Black Hills Corp. Reports 2024 Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Results and Initiates 2025 Earnings Guidance | Black Hills Service Company, LLC
US-based Black Hills Corp. reported its 2024 financial results, highlighting a 4.3% growth in EPS to $3.91. The company increased its five-year capital forecast by 10% to $4.7 billion for 2025-2029, with $1.0 billion allocated for 2025. Significant investments include $350 million for the Ready Wyoming electric transmission expansion project and $118 million for system investments in Kansas Gas. The company also announced new annual revenues from rate reviews: $15 million for Iowa Gas, $25 million for Arkansas Gas, $20 million for Colorado Gas, and $14 million for Wyoming Gas. Black Hills Corp. continues to focus on regulatory and growth initiatives, with a strong commitment to infrastructure investment.
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Multibillion-dollar data center projects to watch
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To meet data center demand, Schneider Electric plans manufacturing expansion
Schneider Electric’s North America energy management segment revenue increased significantly, driven by data center and grid infrastructure demands. A $140 million investment will enhance U.S. manufacturing capacity and create jobs, with new facilities in El Paso, Texas, and Tennessee incorporating advanced technologies for improved efficiency and sustainability. CEO Peter Herweck highlighted the company’s commitment to strengthening its presence and supply chain capabilities.
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Google taps ‘carbon-intelligent’ computing platform to help maintain grid reliability in power crises
Google leverages its carbon-intelligent computing platform to maintain grid reliability during power crises in Oregon, Nebraska, and the Southeastern U.S. The technology, developed in 2020, reduces power consumption and responds to local grid events. Other tech companies like Google are also exploring demand response initiatives to optimize energy use at data centers.
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Google taps ‘carbon-intelligent’ computing platform to help maintain grid reliability in power crises
Google utilized its carbon-intelligent computing platform to navigate power crises in Oregon, Nebraska, and Southeast U.S., also aiding Europe during an energy crisis. This system optimizes data center operations for minimal carbon footprint and contributes to grid reliability. Other tech giants are exploring similar demand response strategies, envisaging significant benefits in cutting carbon emissions.