From The Conversation · John Kotcher · · 1m 20s
US Public Opposes Data Centers
Most Americans reject local data centers despite economic benefits.
In brief
Most Americans reject local data centers despite economic benefits. 56% of US adults oppose data centers in their communities, with bipartisan concerns over electricity costs and environmental impact. Originally reported by The Conversation.
US public opposes data centers
Most Americans oppose building data centers in their communities despite economic benefits.
56% oppose local data centers
56% of US adults say they would oppose a data center in their local area while only 15% support it.
Bipartisan opposition
Majorities of both liberal Democrats and conservative Republicans oppose local data centers.
Electricity cost concerns
59% of Americans expect electricity bills to increase if a data center opens in their area.
Climate change views
Opposition to data centers is strongest among those most worried about climate change and those who dismiss global warming.
Rooftop solar proposal
Data center developers could be required to install rooftop solar and help weatherize homes to offset electricity use.
Public support for solar policy
Most Americans support requiring data centers to offset electricity use through solar and home improvements.
Policy implications
State regulators and utility companies are considering electricity rate structures to prevent data center costs from being passed on to customers.
The essence
56% of US adults oppose data centers in their communities, with bipartisan concerns over electricity costs and environmental impact.
