Google to build a large data center in Hermantown

The Hermantown City Council unanimously approved the construction of a new Google data center following late-night discussions and protests from local residents. The project received a development agreement for 1.7 million square feet and a special land-use permit.

The agreement was reached after the IT giant agreed to forgo $80 million in tax breaks. In addition, the company agreed to reduce the overall scale of the complex to ease the burden on city infrastructure.

The new facility will provide the necessary computing infrastructure to scale the company's artificial intelligence and services amid the industry's growing energy demands.