Google Proposes 780MW Pine Island AI Data Center Backed by 1,900MW of Xcel Wind, Solar and Battery

Google filed a proposal with the Minnesota PUC to build a 780MW AI data center in Pine Island (population ~4,000) and finance 1,400MW of wind, 200MW of solar and 300MW of battery to Xcel's grid. The take-or-pay structure obligates Google to pay for at least 75% of contracted capacity and up to eight years of minimum demand charges if it terminates early, framed as part of its 2030 24/7 carbon-free goal.