Majority of Houstonians use AI but oppose data centers near their homes, Hobby School survey finds
A survey by the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs found that while most Houstonians use AI, nearly 63% oppose data centers being built within a mile of their homes. Residents' top concerns include energy demand, environmental impact, and water usage. This comes as Texas is projected to become the nation's largest data center market by 2030.
A recent survey conducted by the University of Houston's Hobby School of Public Affairs reveals that a significant majority of Houstonians, despite using artificial intelligence tools monthly, would oppose the construction of a data center within a mile of their residences. Approximately 65% of those surveyed reported moderate to high AI usage, with women and adults aged 30-69 showing the highest rates.
Conversely, nearly 63% of respondents expressed opposition to nearby data center development. Assistant Professor Maria Perez Arguelles, the lead researcher, interpreted this sentiment as uncertainty about potential impacts, suggesting residents believe someone should bear the associated costs. Key concerns cited by residents include energy demand, environmental impact, and water usage. Perez Arguelles clarified that the opposition is not towards AI itself, but rather a demand for accountability from companies regarding data center impacts. This survey comes at a time when Texas is on track to become the nation's largest data center market by 2030.