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The Cincinnati Regional Chamber today released Data Centers: A Cincinnati Regional Perspective, a new report examining the region’s existing and planned data centers, their potential economic impact, infrastructure and resource demands, and policy considerations for future development.
“The Chamber is focused on creating a growing, thriving region and we know the best decisions are informed by a clear understanding of the issues, such as data center growth and development, and what’s actually happening in our market,” said Brendon Cull, President & CEO of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, “Our region should embrace data center investment following principles that ensure long-term and sustainable growth for our community.”
The report, with findings from the Chamber’s Center for Research & Data, provides a localized perspective on a rapidly evolving industry and offers a policy framework intended to inform regional dialogue and decision-making as communities consider data center investment.
Key findings include:
- The Cincinnati region’s existing data centers are estimated to have a collective capacity of less than 600 megawatts (MW) – Columbus, OH data centers total more than 3,000 MW. Seventeen facilities are currently operating, with at least three of those in existence for more than a decade. The only hyperscale data centers in the region are two planned facilities in Butler County.
- Data centers can generate significant economic activity. A modeled 250 MW data center scenario would generate an estimated 3,203 total jobs – directly and through the ripple effects in the economy, $301.4 million in earnings and $7.8 million in local taxes annually through direct, indirect and induced impacts.
- Utility demand is a significant consideration and varies substantially by facility and technology. A theoretical 250 MW hyperscale facility could consume approximately 1.5 terawatt-hours of electricity annually – equivalent to the electricity use of roughly 21 average Ohio industrial users – and an estimated 68 million gallons of water annually for direct operations.
A framework for responsible growth
The report lays out a pro-growth, pro-innovation approach to data center development that welcomes investment while protecting the region’s energy grid, water resources, and ratepayers. The report outlines eight policy principles to guide future development:
- Capitalize on data center growth as a strategic opportunity to expand the region’s economy and business community.
- Capture the fiscal benefits data centers bring to local communities.
- Hold operators accountable for securing their energy needs.
- Ensure data center operators do not pass operational costs on to other ratepayers.
- Resolve water needs early in project planning.
- Encourage responsible site selection and land use decisions.
- Foster direct and open collaboration between data centers and host communities.
- Implement performance-based incentives that ensure accountability and project delivery.
The report also examines examples from communities across the country that have developed approaches to issues such as property tax revenue, education funding, site selection, and utility costs. These case studies are intended to provide lessons for our region rather than prescribe a single policy model.
To download the full report, click here.
About the Center for Research & Data
The Center for Research & Data at the Cincinnati Regional Chamber provides data-driven insights and analysis to inform decision-making and advance economic growth across the Cincinnati region. Through original research, economic impact studies and regional benchmarking, the Center helps business, civic and community leaders better understand the trends, opportunities and challenges shaping our region. Its signature State of the Region report tracks key indicators of economic competitiveness and quality of life, providing a foundation for informed conversations and strategic investments. The Center’s work supports the Chamber’s vision of a growing, thriving region where everyone belongs. For more information, visit https://cincinnatichamber.com/civic-strategy-policy/research-data/.
About the Cincinnati Regional Chamber
The Cincinnati Regional Chamber is the premier business and civic organization dedicated to growing the vibrancy and economic prosperity of the Cincinnati region. To achieve its vision that Cincinnati is a growing, thriving region where everyone belongs, the Chamber seeks to grow our economy, grow our population, and grow our cultural vibrancy — with the foundation of a strong business community — to foster a welcoming environment for all. The Chamber’s membership offerings, signature leadership programs, government and regional advocacy efforts, community events such as BLINK and Oktoberfest as well as key partnerships with organizations like Cincinnati Experience, Cincinnati Business Excellerator and the Workforce Innovation Center lead the way in making that vision a reality. For more information, visit cincinnatichamber.com.
Media Contact
Amy Fitzgibbons, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Cincinnati Regional Chamber. 646-369-5406. afitzgibbons@cincinnatiregionalchamber.com