Blackburn, Hagerty court nuclear power for new data centers
Sens. Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty promoted Oak Ridge, Tennessee, as a potential hub for computing power and artificial intelligence at the ImagineIF conference. Speakers discussed public opposition to data centers over noise, water use, energy demand and other impacts, as well as the need for stronger industry outreach.
U.S. Sens. Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty presented Oak Ridge as a potential center for computing power and artificial intelligence during the ImagineIF conference. Their pitch emphasized lower taxes and fewer regulations and lawsuits as ways to encourage innovation, investment and job creation.
The discussion also addressed growing resistance to data center development. Panelist Hash Hashemian and Hagerty attributed opposition to concerns about noise, water consumption, energy use and organized social media campaigns, while noting that some Tennessee communities have imposed moratoriums despite the potential for increased tax revenue. The speakers argued that the technology and AI industries need a stronger public-relations effort to explain the economic benefits and address community concerns.