Fact Check
12 common claims about the data center, examined with evidence and context from 9 independent research reports
We believe in honest, evidence-based conversation. Some concerns are valid and require proactive management. Others are based on incomplete information. A few are simply false. Here's what the data shows — with full context, key facts, and suggested responses for every claim.
“Data centers will drain our water supply”
Data centers do use water for cooling, but Rockford has massive surplus capacity. The data center would use just 7.5% of system capacity at peak — and modern cooling can cut that by 70%.
“Data centers will raise our electricity bills”
Data centers use significant electricity, but Illinois law specifically prohibits cost-shifting to residential ratepayers. This project also generates its own power on-site.
“Data centers only create a handful of jobs”
The 200 direct jobs are only the beginning. With a 6.4x economic multiplier, total permanent employment reaches ~1,480 — plus 1,000+ construction jobs paying $70K/year over 4-5 years.
“Data centers are environmental disasters”
Data centers produce zero direct air emissions during normal operations. They are among the cleanest possible uses for I-2 industrial-zoned land — far cleaner than the chemical plants, refineries, and heavy manufacturing also permitted here.
“Data centers are incredibly noisy and will ruin our neighborhood”
Virginia noise complaints are valid — for Virginia, where facilities were built 200 feet from homes. Rockford's 1,100-acre site provides 0.5+ mile setbacks, reducing noise to 40-45 dB at the nearest residence — quieter than moderate rainfall.
“This data center will destroy farmland”
Yes, 1,100 acres will convert from agricultural use. But this land has been zoned I-2 industrial since 2008 — it was always designated for industrial development. It represents less than 0.65% of county farmland.
“Data centers release forever chemicals (PFAS)”
Some cooling systems and fire suppression in data centers contain PFAS. This is a legitimate concern — but PFAS is ubiquitous in everyday products, and the industry is actively transitioning to PFAS-free alternatives.
“Data centers will lower our property values”
Evidence from other communities shows the opposite. Data center tax revenue improves schools and services — the primary drivers of property values. Columbus, OH saw land appreciate 5x; Salt Lake County saw 8x.
“We don't need AI and data centers — they don't benefit regular people”
Data centers power the services you use every day — email, banking, GPS, streaming, social media. AI is advancing healthcare, accessibility, weather forecasting, and scientific research. The question isn't whether we need them — it's whether Rockford should benefit from hosting one.
“The company isn't trustworthy — they pivoted from green hydrogen”
Business pivots when market conditions change are normal — not suspicious. The leadership team has decades of experience at Enel Green Power, Orsted, and American Electric Power. Adapting to market reality demonstrates competent management.
“$12 billion is just a number they made up to get approval”
The exact figure can't be independently verified yet, but it falls squarely within the expected range. Hyperscale data centers cost $1-2B per building; 8-11 buildings plus infrastructure puts the range at $8-16.5B. The number is consistent with industry investment levels.
Click any claim to see key facts, full context, and suggested responses. Use the share button to copy a direct link.
How We Engage With Concerns
Effective advocacy combines facts, empathy, and genuine engagement. Not everyone will be convinced — but everyone deserves honest answers.
Lead with Empathy
Every concern comes from a real person with real stakes. Acknowledge this first: "I understand why you're concerned about this project."
Use Facts, Not Condescension
Provide specific data: water capacity, tax estimates, sound calculations. "Here's what the data shows..." — never "You're wrong because..."
Acknowledge Legitimate Concerns
Some issues — PFAS, water use — are real. Don't minimize them. Provide context: "This is a concern that requires transparency and monitoring."
Ask Comparative Questions
The land is zoned I-2: "What else could go here? A chemical plant? Metal fab facility? Compared to those options, what would you prefer?"
Focus on Tangible Benefits
$60 million in annual taxes. $33 million to schools. 1,480 jobs with $95K average salary. Better infrastructure. These are concrete, measurable impacts.
Invite Dialogue & Transparency
"What would address your concerns? What transparency would you want?" Offer environmental monitoring, water management plans, community reporting.
Avoid Hyperbole — On Both Sides
Don't claim this project will solve all of Rockford's problems. Honest assessment is more credible: "This creates substantial benefits without major environmental impact. Is it a silver bullet? No. Is it valuable? Yes." Data centers are not perfect — no industrial development is. But compared to other I-2 uses, they represent one of the cleanest, highest-revenue options available.
The question for Rockford:
Do the community benefits outweigh the concerns? That question is best answered with facts, not fear. This report provides the factual foundation for that conversation.