HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-08-31 Vanessa Stew Opposition TestimonyFrom: Vanessa Stewart
To: Planning WPC Testimony
Subject: Data Center Development in Hawaii
Date: Monday, August 31, 2026 3:30:24 PM
To: WPCTestimony@hawaii.gov
Subject: Strong Opposition to Data Center Development in Hawaii
Dear Members of the Committee,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the development of data centers on
our Hawaiian islands. While technology advances rapidly, our isolated island
infrastructure and fragile ecosystem cannot support the massive energy and resource
demands of these facilities.
Data centers pose severe threats to Hawaii for the following reasons:
Exacerbating the Highest Electric Bills: Hawaii already suffers from the most
expensive electricity rates in the nation. Introducing data centers—which
operate 24/7/365—will drastically surge demand, driving utility prices even
higher for local families and small businesses.
Dependence on Imported Fossil Fuels: Hawaii is legally committed to a 100%
clean energy future. Data centers require massive, uninterrupted power that our
current renewable grid cannot sustain, forcing a prolonged reliance on
expensive, dirty, imported fossil fuels.
Straining a Fragile Ecosystem: These facilities generate immense heat
and require millions of gallons of water daily for cooling. Drawing from our
critical aquifers threatens our limited freshwater supply, while discharging
heated wastewater disrupts local ecology.
Massive Carbon and E-Waste Footprints: Beyond power consumption,
data centers rely on heavy industrial backup generators that emit toxic air
pollutants during testing and grid outages. They also generate constant
electronic waste and require toxic chemicals for battery storage systems.
Minimal Local Economic Benefit: Data centers require vast tracts of
land—driving up real estate costs—but create very few permanent jobs
once construction is finished. The profits go to mainland tech
conglomerates, while residents inherit the environmental degradation.
Our islands require sustainable, community-first infrastructure, not resource-
draining industrial complexes that jeopardize our environment and financial well-
being. I urge the committee to reject any proposals allowing data center expansion in Hawaii.
Thank you for your time, consideration, and service to our community.
Sincerely,
Vanessa Stew