Data Center Expansion Leads to Homeowner Displacement Across US
Data centers and their associated infrastructure, such as transmission lines, are leading to the displacement of homeowners across the US through land acquisition and the threat of eminent domain. Examples include Georgia Power's efforts to acquire over 300 parcels for new power lines and residents of a Kentucky mobile home park facing eviction for a 2,000-acre data center. This trend is sparking concerns about property rights, utility prices, and environmental impact.
The expansion of data centers across the U.S. is leading to the displacement of homeowners, as land is acquired for new facilities or associated infrastructure. This trend is highlighted by instances in Georgia and Kentucky, where residents are being compelled to vacate their properties, often under the threat of eminent domain.
In Georgia, Georgia Power is seeking to acquire over 300 parcels of land for a new transmission line to meet data center energy demand. Affected residents, such as Ansley Brown, reported feeling pressured to sell their rural home and land to the company, fearing forced acquisition through eminent domain. A Georgia Power spokesperson acknowledged eminent domain is a serious consideration but stated it is not pursued lightly.
Similarly, residents of a mobile home park in Kentucky were given 90 days to leave after their landlord agreed to sell the property to an unnamed Fortune 500 company planning a 2,000-acre data center.
Despite these displacements and growing public opposition, former President Donald Trump continues to advocate for increased AI data center development in the U.S. The article notes that eminent domain laws, which allow the government to convert private property for "public use" with "just compensation," are a key factor enabling these acquisitions, as AI is being framed as a public benefit. Critics view these actions as "theft" and express concerns about rising utility prices and environmental strain.