Heat adds to strains on areas with data centres, raising the temperature on AI debates
A data center in Lowell, Massachusetts, operated by Markley Group, is facing local opposition due to concerns over its environmental impact, including increased electricity demand, air quality from diesel generators, and water usage during heat waves. In response to community concerns, the Lowell City Council enacted a one-year moratorium on further data center expansion within the city.
The data center operated by Markley Group in Lowell, Massachusetts, is experiencing local opposition, particularly during heat waves, over its environmental effects on the Sacred Heart neighborhood. Residents like Eileen Castle express concerns about air quality due to industrial air conditioners and backup diesel generators, and water usage. State Representative Tara Hong noted the area is designated as facing higher environmental and health risks.
Professor Shaolei Ren from the University of California, Riverside, explained that extreme heat significantly increases data center electricity demand, straining power grids and potentially leading to reliance on energy-intensive refrigeration or water-intensive evaporative cooling. Diesel generators, used as a backup, can worsen local air quality. Markley Group CEO Jeff Markley defended the company's practices, stating they planted over 2,000 trees, use generators only during power disruptions or brief weekly tests, and utilize 118,000 gallons of water daily at peak summer, a fraction of the city's consumption.
In response to growing community pressure, the Lowell City Council unanimously passed a one-year moratorium in February, blocking further data center expansion. Jonathan Koomey, a data center researcher, emphasized that while data center growth is moderate nationally, its environmental and economic impacts are significant at the local level. The North American Electric Reliability Corporation has also issued an alert regarding challenges from large power consumers like AI data centers.
Tensions at a recent city-led community forum on data center zoning escalated, leading to a 14-year-old girl being temporarily detained by police for speaking out of turn. Lowell Mayor Erik Gitschier defended the police's actions, citing the need for decorum during a heated debate. A coalition opposing data centers continues to clash with supporters, including electricians, who argue the facility benefits Lowell's tech industry ties.