Charting Michigan’s Data Center Future Together

On May 7, 2026, the Charting Michigan’s Data Center Future Together workshop assembled state and municipal leaders, as well as representatives from private industry, NGOs and academia to discuss key considerations for data center siting and development in Michigan. Jointly supported by the University of Michigan's Erb Institute, Graham Sustainability Institute, Center for EmPowering Communities (EPC), School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS), and Office of the Vice Provost for Sustainability and Climate Action, the workshop sought to foster cross-sector collaboration and exploration of pressing issues related to data center siting and development, with an emphasis on community needs, energy systems, water resources, land use, and economic development.