Trump floats cash payments amid backlash over AI data centers
President Donald Trump suggested that companies developing AI data centers should share financial benefits with host communities to address public backlash. He also urged developers to generate their own electricity and provide surplus power to communities or the grid amid concerns about rising electricity consumption, water use and environmental impacts.
President Donald Trump said technology companies could ease opposition to large AI data centers by sharing their financial benefits with the communities where facilities are built. He also reiterated that developers should construct dedicated power plants and supply excess electricity to local communities or the broader grid, rather than increasing pressure on household utility bills.
The comments come as an Associated Press-NORC poll found growing concern about AI's environmental effects, with roughly six in 10 Americans supporting restrictions on new data center construction. Researchers cited potential strain on electricity infrastructure and water supplies, particularly as developers pursue rural sites. Industry representatives emphasized investment and job benefits, while analysts and residents questioned whether those gains would outweigh the environmental costs.