In episode 176, we are finally talking about DATA CENTERS. Ohio is in the middle of a data center boom. Google, Amazon, Meta, and dozens of other tech giants are building massive facilities across the state — particularly in Central Ohio — drawn by cheap land, fiber infrastructure, and generous tax breaks from our Statehouse. While these companies are selling the story of jobs and economic growth, a report from Innovation Ohio raises serious questions about who is really footing the bill. The answer unfortunately, is all of us.

Joining us today is Michael McGovern, President and CEO of Innovation Ohio, the organization behind that report. Innovation Ohio is Ohio’s Progressive politics and policy hub. It’s an organization that bridges advocacy, activism, and policymaking in Ohio. By building coalitions, conducting research, and coordinating messaging campaigns, they tackle critical issues at the local, state, and federal levels. Their work focuses on improving the lives of Ohio workers and families, creating opportunities for all Ohioans, and strengthening communities from the ground up.

And today with Michael, we’re going to dig into what’s actually happening to Ohio’s electric grid, why the average Ohio family could be looking at roughly $70 more on their monthly power bill by 2028, and what state lawmakers are (and aren’t) doing about it. This is a conversation every Ohioan needs to hear.

Resources:

* Innovation Ohio

* Report - Data Centers, Ohio’s Electric Grid, and Your Power Bill

* Report - The Power Plant Next Door: How a Little-Known Ohio Law Is Silencing Local Communities

* Ohio House Bill 706

* Ohio House Bill 695

We’re bringing together digital creators from across the state to build a powerful digital organizing network called Ohio Creators for Progress. Support and donate to this effort below! ⬇️

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Ohio, We Have a Data Center Problem: A Conversation with Innovation Ohio