North Dakota’s Cold Climate Is Fueling the Future of Sustainable Data Centers

 

As the digital economy accelerates, so does the need for sustainable infrastructure to support it. Data centers, the engines behind our connected world, consume enormous amounts of energy—especially for cooling. Traditional methods rely heavily on electricity and water, straining both the environment and the bottom line. This has sparked a growing focus on sustainable data centers that prioritize efficiency and environmental responsibility.

However, companies like Applied Digital are reimagining what’s possible by turning to colder climates like North Dakota, where the natural environment becomes an ally, not an obstacle.  They reduce energy usage and water consumption, creating a more efficient and eco-friendly model by leveraging frigid temperatures to cool their facilities. It’s a powerful example of how location and innovation can come together to reshape the industry. Nick Phillips, the EVP of Public Affairs and Real Estate Acquisition at Applied Digital explains how this approach is being scaled and why it matters for the future of digital infrastructure.

Recent Episodes

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how organizations evaluate risk, analyze markets, and drive operational efficiency. In financial services alone, global AI spending is projected to surpass $97 billion by 2027, reflecting how deeply data-driven technologies are reshaping decision-making. For private equity firms—where hundreds of potential investments may be screened each year—the ability to analyze information…

Artificial intelligence is no longer a future-state discussion—it’s a present-day leadership priority. As enterprises accelerate the adoption of generative AI and automation tools, hiring strategies are evolving alongside broader business transformation. According to McKinsey’s 2025 State of AI report, 88% of organizations now report using AI in at least one business function, underscoring how…

As organizations navigate accelerating digital transformation, tighter margins, and increasing organizational complexity, the role of consultants is being re-examined. Today’s most effective consulting leaders are no longer valued simply for delivering projects, but for bringing outside perspective, cross-industry insight, and the ability to lead through ambiguity. Most large organizations today are not short on…