Wisconsin residents sue Microsoft over noise caused by new data center

Key Points:

• Residents near Microsoft's Fairwater data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, have filed a class-action lawsuit alleging excessive noise pollution from the facility's diesel generators and HVAC systems, claiming it causes property damage and private nuisance.
• The lawsuit highlights ongoing community frustrations with data centers nationwide, citing issues like noise, air pollution, water usage, and energy costs, while Microsoft and Foxconn plan to expand their operations at the site.
• Microsoft acknowledged the noise complaints, stating it addressed a humming noise from cooling fans in April 2023, with independent monitoring confirming the issue was resolved, though residents continue to report dust, light pollution, and increased traffic concerns.
• Local officials note no recent noise complaints following Microsoft's mitigation efforts and emphasize their commitment to ensuring Microsoft remains a responsible neighbor, despite some residents expressing ongoing dissatisfaction and considering relocation.
• The plaintiffs seek unspecified damages, while Microsoft maintains it aims to be a good community partner and has implemented measures such as extended street sweeping and regulated construction hours to mitigate environmental impacts.