New map tracks data centers across the country, residents can report what they're seeing

Environmental activist Erin Brockovich has unveiled a new national map designed to help U.S. residents track and report data center developments within their communities. Brockovich stated in an interview with MS Now that she created the tool in response to concerns from community members about a lack of transparency regarding data center projects.

The activist noted a widespread pattern across 49 states where communities reported being excluded from decision-making processes and facing non-disclosures. Common concerns include rising electricity costs, significant water usage, loss of land and wildlife habitats, and excessive noise pollution from these facilities.

In Dowagiac, Michigan, residents have filed a class-action lawsuit against Alliance Cloud Services, a subsidiary of Hyperscale Data Inc., alleging "excessive noise" from their data center. Plaintiffs claim the noise is audible indoors, even with closed windows and televisions on, leading to health problems like headaches and decreased property values. They accuse Alliance Cloud Services of intentional or negligent conduct.

Additionally, Brockovich's map indicates a hyperscale data center project under construction on former farmland in Saline Township, Michigan. This site recently hosted a high-profile visit by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, executives from Oracle and Related Digital, and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, underscoring the project's significance. Citizens in Mid-Michigan have reportedly submitted various reports, including emails and photos, to Brockovich's platform.