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AI Boom Fuels Global Data Center Expansion and Controversy

2/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The AI boom is driving rapid global data-center expansion to support increasing workloads.
By 2028, AI servers may use energy equal to 22% of US households.
The expansion increases electricity demand and requires substantial water for cooling.
Local communities push back against new projects.
Feasibility of space-based data centers remains uncertain.

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Story summary

The AI boom is driving rapid global data-center expansion to support increasing workloads.
By 2028, AI servers may use energy equal to 22% of US households.
The expansion increases electricity demand and requires substantial water for cooling.
Local communities push back against new projects.
Feasibility of space-based data centers remains uncertain.