Harwood residents blame data center for rising power outages and delays

A new data center was supposed to bring progress—but now locals fear it’s bringing blackouts instead. Why is Applied Digital’s project facing growing backlash?

, and Administrator

2025 November 13 . 5:14 PM

1 min read

In this image we can see the information board, buildings, shed, trees, electric cables and sky... — In this image we can see the information board, buildings, shed, trees, electric cables and sky with clouds.

Harwood residents blame data center for rising power outages and delays

Power outages in Harwood have sparked concern among residents, coinciding with the construction of a new data center by Applied Digital Corporation. The company aims to complete the first buildings by the end of 2024, but some locals question the impact on their electricity supply.

Residents have reported power outages since Applied Digital began work on the data center. Paul Matthys, president of Cass County Electric, acknowledged that while some issues are beyond control, the company is addressing them.

Cass County officials have attributed the outages to factors unrelated to the data center project, such as weather or accidental line damage. However, residents continue to express concerns, leading to frequent town halls hosted by Applied Digital officials to address public queries. The company now anticipates completing the first building by the end of 2026, a delay from their initial 2024 target.

Despite Applied Digital's reassurances, residents in Harwood remain worried about the data center's impact on their power supply. Officials from both Cass County and Applied Digital are working together to address these concerns and ensure minimal disruption.