US Communities Block 120 Datacenter Projects Worth Nearly $200 Billion Over AI and Climate Fears
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Oct 28
US Communities Block 120 Datacenter Projects Worth Nearly $200 Billion Over AI and Climate Fears
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Oct 28
Summary
At least 120 US datacenter projects worth nearly $200 billion were blocked or delayed in the first half of 2026, with opposition recorded in 49 states, according to Data Center Watch.
The resistance centers on fears that AI-linked facilities will drain water, burn gas for power and deepen climate damage, while also supporting oil and gas exploration through AI tools.
Heatmap News found at least 20 projects were canceled outright in the first three months of 2026 alone, marking a record pace for community pushback.
A Nature study cited by activists said AI partnerships with oil majors could add 1.8 gigatonnes of carbon dioxide—roughly Russia's annual emissions—underscoring the broader climate stakes.
Climate Emergency Fund said it has directed half its funding to grassroots groups fighting datacenter expansion, framing the local battles as the start of a wider movement against corporate control of land, water and energy.