A new study shows public opposition to data centers could change if people felt they were benefitting, too
A new study by Yale and Rewiring America suggests public opposition to data centers could lessen if communities perceived direct benefits, such as offsets to electricity costs. This indicates that current resistance stems from a 'bad bargain' where communities bear costs without receiving benefits, rather than a general anti-growth stance.
A recent study conducted by Yale and advocacy non-profit Rewiring America indicates that widespread public opposition to data centers, irrespective of political leanings, could diminish if communities felt they were receiving tangible benefits. The study, titled 'Climate Change in the American Mind,' found that a significant majority (74%) of respondents would be more supportive if developers helped offset household electricity costs. This sentiment was exemplified by a packed Boulder City, Nevada, City Council meeting where residents voiced opposition to a data center project.
Kristin Eberhard, Vice President of Policy at Rewiring America, explained that this resistance is not inherently anti-development but rather opposition to a 'bad bargain' where communities absorb costs while others reap the profits. She suggested incentives data center developers or local governments could provide, such as heat pump upgrades, rooftop solar panels, weatherization, home batteries, and smart controls, to alleviate consumer energy burdens.
The study's findings come as several states, including New Jersey and Virginia, are exploring regulatory measures concerning data centers. These proposed regulations aim to prevent data center-related increases in power usage from being passed on to consumers, addressing a key concern highlighted by the research.