Everything You Need To Know About AI Data Centers: Part 3
To put it plainly, in the less-than-honorable race for the quantity and density of data centers, the United States is winning—by far. The U.S. is experiencing the fastest expansion of data centers globally, with China and Europe following behind.
What is unusual about this expansion is that, unlike many other industries, data center sites tend to be located close to where people live, typically within just a few miles of urban areas. This is something new. Mineral and coal mines, steel plants, and large factories have traditionally been built farther away from cities, in designated industrial zones. Data centers are different, and that brings more negatives than positives for local communities.
Another significant fact is that they tend to be built in clusters to take advantage of shared power and water infrastructure—one of the many negative aspects of data centers being built in our communities.
In our Report and on our map, we analyzed more than 4,500 data centers and found that Virginia has the highest concentration, with a staggering 81 data centers.
Why Here?
Data center developers are attracted to these cities and regions by their low energy prices, supportive local policies, and available land and water. If the policies weren’t supportive to begin with, developers wouldn’t find such fertile ground.
But what does that mean for local communities?
In Virginia, data centers consume more than 25% of the state’s electricity. That’s a shocking statistic. They also use large amounts of drinking water and generate harmful EMF and noise pollution. Data centers—especially when highly concentrated—reduce quality of life.
And tragically, no one will compensate residents for those living conditions, potential health impacts, or the decline in property values. It’s not an exaggeration to say that data centers may become the next major environmental hazard that future generations associate with declining health, well-being, and quality of life.
What Can You Do?
This affects all of us—these AI data centers are popping up everywhere. We need accurate information so we can take action or participate in informed discussions.
That’s why our team created an interactive map where you can check your area for data centers and hyperscalers, estimated water and electricity displacement, local temperature increases, and much more. Explore the map, become familiar with it, and use it as a resource when sharing information with others.
If you discover information about new or proposed data centers in your area, please share it with us. Our map will continue to expand as AI data centers expand.
If you’re wondering how to spot a data center before construction begins, check Chapter 12 of our Report. Identifying projects in their early stages is one of the first steps communities can take, and thanks to many brave and open-minded people, some projects have already been stopped.
Looking for the rest of the series? Read the remaining posts here.