The One Town That Wants a Data Center
Opposition to data centers may be the singular unifying issue in American politics. Seventy percent of Americans are against data-center construction in their communities. They worry about the environmental dracularity of these facilities, the electrical costs they may impose, and the imperiousness with which tech companies target struggling communities while drastically altering the landscape. Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez have spoken out against data centers; so have Steve Bannon and the right-wing podcaster Matt Walsh.
TL;DR
- Seventy percent of Americans oppose data center construction in their communities.
- New York recently banned "hyperscale" data centers, while other states are considering moratoriums.
- Jay, Maine, is an exception, actively seeking a data center due to economic hardship.
- The town's economy has suffered since the closure of the Androscoggin paper mill, which was a significant employer.
- Developers see the former mill site as ideal for a data center due to its infrastructure, including power and wastewater treatment.
- Residents' support for the data center is influenced by a strong sense of individual property rights and a desire to revive their town's economy.
- Secrecy surrounding data center projects often prevents public awareness and opposition until it's too late.