Mystery Humming Noise Heard Across US States

Americans in multiple states, including New Jersey, Virginia, and Connecticut, are reporting a pervasive humming noise they believe originates from nearby data centers. Residents in Vineland, New Jersey, like Scott Montgomery and Theresa Lewis, have described the constant buzzing as "annoying," "unsettling," and causing "anxiety" and sleep difficulties, particularly as they live close to construction sites. Dale Brown from Virginia also noted the significant loudness from a data center near his home. The Environmental and Energy Study Institute explains that data centers emit sounds from cooling systems, generators, and fans, which can be heard for hundreds of feet. The institute suggests solutions like soundproofing, alternative cooling, and better site planning, and emphasizes a role for state and local governments in updating regulations. The article highlights that the rapid expansion of AI since 2022 has intensified demand for data centers, which are heavy consumers of electricity and water. This surge has exposed regulatory gaps, prompting lawmakers at state and federal levels to consider new proposals to address the associated energy, water, and infrastructure pressures. The issue of noise pollution from data centers is a growing concern for communities nationwide.