Polls and Protests Show Americans Are Turning on Data Centers | U.S. News Decision Points | U.S. News
A recent Gallup poll indicates that 70% of Americans oppose AI data center construction in their local areas, citing concerns over resource use and pollution. This sentiment is manifesting in local opposition, such as protests in rural Utah against a new AI data center project. Despite local approval, residents are seeking a referendum to overturn the decision.
A new Gallup poll reveals significant public opposition to AI data center development, with 70% of Americans against local construction and nearly half strongly opposed. Resource consumption, particularly water and energy, along with environmental concerns like noise and air pollution, are primary drivers of this sentiment. These issues are illustrated by specific examples across the U.S.
In Lake Tahoe, Nevada, NV Energy is slated to stop providing power to the town after May 2027, partially due to the increasing energy demands of data centers, which are projected to consume 35% of Nevada's electricity by 2030. This decision has raised concerns about rising electricity bills for nearly 50,000 utility customers.
Meanwhile, in Utah, rural residents are actively protesting a massive AI data center project, despite backers like Kevin O'Leary asserting its economic and national security benefits. The project was recently approved by Box Elder County commissioners, but residents are pursuing a November ballot referendum to overturn the decision. This localized resistance reflects a broader trend, with research indicating that 20 data center projects worth an estimated $98 billion were blocked or delayed between March and June of the previous year.