Overview
Microsoft Project Mountain Data Center is a 161 kV substation in Des Moines, Iowa, operated by MidAmerican Energy. It supports the power needs of a major data center facility.
Microsoft Project Mountain Data Center is a substation located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. It operates at 161 kV, a common transmission voltage for industrial and data center loads, and is owned and operated by MidAmerican Energy, a major utility in the region. The substation is part of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) grid, which coordinates wholesale electricity across 15 U.S. states. As a 161 kV facility, it plays a role in stepping down transmission-level power for distribution to the data center, ensuring reliable electricity supply. The infrastructure adheres to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for grid stability. This substation is critical for powering Microsoft's data center operations, which require high availability and stable voltage. Its location in Iowa benefits from the state's strong wind energy generation, and the substation may integrate renewable sources into the data center's energy mix. The facility supports the growing demand for cloud computing and digital services in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is located in an urban area near Des Moines, Iowa, where data centers are increasingly common due to favorable energy costs and renewable energy availability. The 161 kV voltage level indicates it serves a medium-to-large load, likely requiring robust environmental management for electromagnetic fields and noise. The facility's operation aligns with local grid stability needs and may support integration of wind power from nearby farms.
Frequently asked questions
The substation is located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States, at coordinates 41.541865, -93.827426.
The substation operates at 161 kV, a standard transmission voltage for industrial and data center loads.
The substation is owned and operated by MidAmerican Energy, a utility serving Iowa and surrounding states.
As part of the U.S. grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets.
The substation steps down 161 kV transmission power to distribution levels for the Microsoft data center, ensuring reliable electricity supply for critical computing operations.