Say NO to Data Centers in Montana, and Protect Montana's Resources from Foreign Corporate Interests

I am deeply concerned about the recent memorandum of understanding signed by Governor Greg Gianforte with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to explore data center and power infrastructure projects in southern Montana. While I understand the desire to promote economic development, I believe this agreement could have severe consequences for our state's resources and residents. The potential establishment of large-scale data centers poses significant risks to our energy infrastructure and water resources. These facilities require enormous amounts of electricity - up to 1,400 megawatts for just three centers, according to NorthWestern Energy's letters of intent. This massive energy demand could strain our power grid and potentially lead to increased costs for existing Montana customers. It's no coincidence that nine organizations have already petitioned the Montana Public Service Commission to create a separate customer class for data centers, recognizing the outsized impact these facilities could have on our energy landscape. Furthermore, the water usage required for cooling these data centers is alarming, especially given Montana's ongoing struggles with drought. We cannot afford to divert our precious water resources to cool servers when our agricultural sector and natural ecosystems are already under stress. I urge you to prioritize the long-term well-being of Montana residents over short-term economic gains promised by foreign corporations. We need sustainable development that aligns with our state's values and protects our natural resources. Please oppose any legislation or agreements that would fast-track these data center projects without thorough environmental impact assessments and public input. Instead, I ask that you advocate for investments in renewable energy infrastructure and water conservation technologies that will benefit all Montanans. Our state's future should not be dictated by the interests of foreign companies, but by the needs and values of the people who call Montana home. Act now to protect our resources and ensure that any development in our state truly serves the best interests of its citizens.