Iowa has become home to data centers or server farms for some of the biggest players in the tech industry. Why do companies like Google, Facebook and Microsoft choose a state in the middle of the country to store their data? John Roth is a data center facilities manager for OneNeck IT Solutions in Cedar Falls, and says one advantage of securing data in Iowa is you don’t have to worry about earthquakes, hurricanes and other natural disasters.

There are now large data facilities in operation or under construction in Council Bluffs, Altoona and West Des Moines. Iowa State University economist Dave Swenson says Iowa’s cheap energy prices are a major draw for the facilities.

Iowa Economic Development Authority director, Debi Durham, says Iowa’s cheap electricity is due in part to the fact the state doesn’t apply sales taxes to the utility. Additionally, she says Iowa electric company’s keeps costs low with the investment in new renewable energy, and the diversity of their portfolios.