Apple Building Massive Data Center in U.S. Powered Entirely by Renewable Energy

Apple is building a massive new data center in the U.S.

The company unveiled its plans this week which include the construction of a 400,000-square-foot center in Iowa. The Waukee-based “state-of-the-art” development will improve service for North America for Apple features like iMessage and Siri.

“At Apple, we’re always looking at ways to deliver even better experiences for our customers,” said CEO Tim Cook in a statement. “Our new data center in Iowa will help serve millions of people across North America who use Siri, iMessage, Apple Music and other Apple services—all powered by renewable energy.”

The center will cost $1.3 billion to build and, according to Apple, will create over 550 construction and operations jobs in the Des Moines area.

“Apple is responsible for two million jobs in all 50 states and we’re proud today’s investment will add to the more than 10,000 jobs we already support across Iowa, providing even more economic opportunity for the community,” noted Cook.

Apple said it will be working with local partners to invest in renewable energy projects from wind and other clean energy sources to power the data center. Apple has pledged to power global operations with 100 per cent renewable energy. The company has reached that goal in 24 countries, including the U.S.

“We’re honored Apple is choosing Iowa for the site of its most technologically advanced data center to date,” said Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. “Apple’s commitment to innovation and renewable energy leadership mirrors our own.”

“Waukee is proud to welcome Apple,” added Waukee Mayor Bill Peard. “We look forward to a continued partnership with Apple on this effort for decades to come.”

Construction on the data center is expected to start early next year and Apple plans to bring it online in 2020.