Two Harbors data center feasibility study is a go

The Two Harbors Economic Development Authority voted to approve an agreement with ITnetcom to conduct a feasibility study on the area for a data center.

Two Harbors and the surrounding area is considered to be a potential hot spot for large companies to house data centers because of the cool climate and cold water of Lake Superior. Data centers can use a form of heat exchange with cool water to keep electricity costs down. A feasibility study would show the best spots for data centers, potentially attracting companies to the area.

“We think that this is a viable feasibility project because of the expansion of fiber throughout the region and not just the Lake County fiber project but also the Northeast Service Cooperative,” THEDA chairperson Cathy Erickson said.

Erickson said that the cool climate and smaller population size of the area made it an interesting prospect for a data center. She said that data centers are all about reliability. “The focus of these data centers is that you always have access to your information,” said Erickson.

The study will cost $46,000. The Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board has pledged up to $23,000 in matching funds. The county board has pledged up to $20,500 and THEDA itself will contribute $2,500. The Two Harbors Development Fund may also contribute money.

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