Data Centers Face Nationwide Backlash as 70% of Americans Oppose Local Projects
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 19
Data Centers Face Nationwide Backlash as 70% of Americans Oppose Local Projects
3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 19
Summary
A Gallup survey released in May found 70% of Americans oppose building data centers in their communities, turning the facilities into a nationwide political flashpoint ahead of the general election.
Critics say the centers drain power and water, generate noise and e-waste, and bring limited permanent employment despite rapid expansion tied to AI demand.
U.S. data centers used 176 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2023—more than 4% of national consumption—and large sites can consume up to 5 million gallons of water a day.
More than 4,700 data centers are operating nationwide, including over 600 in Virginia and 500 in Texas, while some states and local governments are moving toward tighter oversight.
Industry advocates argue the facilities are essential AI-era infrastructure, citing average employment of about 150 workers per site, technical pay of $78,000 to $134,000, and rising tax revenue.