Microsoft Project Nova Campus

A planned data center campus called "Project Nova" is under consideration in Caledonia, Wisconsin, just outside Milwaukee. The proposed site spans 244 acres and would require rezoning from agricultural to light manufacturing use.

The land, owned by We Energies, sits west of its Oak Creek coal power plant along Douglas Avenue and Botting Road. Preliminary site concepts suggest the development could include three data center buildings and a 15-acre electrical substation.

Engineering firm Dewberry Engineers is leading the rezoning application, but the identity of the potential data center operator has not been disclosed. The project’s timeline and technical specifications remain unconfirmed at this stage.

The planning commission deferred its recommendation decision to gather further details, with community input already beginning during recent meetings. A formal vote is expected later this month.

The neighboring Oak Creek site includes aging coal power units and the newer Elm Road Generating Station, which is scheduled for conversion to natural gas. This proximity to major energy infrastructure could influence future campus design and operations.