Estimated to bring thousands of jobs to region

Senator Andrew Mathews (R-Milaca) is supporting a proposed $600 million Google data center to be built in Becker, MN. In what would be one of the largest private economic development projects in our state in years, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) estimates the initial construction would bring nearly 2,000 jobs to Sherburne County and 1,300 additional jobs statewide. At the data center in Becker, 50 full-time tech jobs would be created.

“With the retirement of two units at the Sherco power plant on the horizon, this development would bring much needed jobs and economic stability to our community,” said Senator Mathews, who serves as Vice-Chair of the Senate Committee on Energy and Utilities Finance and Policy. “While discussions continue, I am fully committed in supporting this project and making necessary infrastructure improvements to attract not only Google, but other businesses that want to make Sherburne County and our region home.”

The project is a partnership between DEED, the City of Becker, Sherburne County, and Xcel Energy. Excel would sell Google the land and power the facility through renewable energy sources.  According to DEED, construction would take between 18-24 months. Xcel Energy has requested a decision on the proposal by the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) by June 30. In addition, local infrastructure improvements will be needed to complete the project.

“Minnesota needs to be open for business, and by working together, we can accomplish that goal,” added Senator Mathews. “I look forward to working with our local government officials and private industry to make this project a reality.”