Growing Opposition to Data Center Construction in the U.S.

In recent months, there has been a notable increase in legislative measures aimed at restricting data center construction across various states and localities in the United States. This shift is largely driven by growing public concern over the environmental impact and energy consumption associated with large-scale data centers, particularly in light of the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. The Maine legislature recently became the first in the nation to pass a bill that outright bans the development of large-scale data centers. Concurrently, a city in Wisconsin approved a referendum that empowers voters to have a greater say in major tax-funded projects, a direct response to the establishment of a nearby data center campus.

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The initial support for data centers was bipartisan, with both Democratic and Republican governors promoting major projects as a means to attract investment and technological advancement. However, this enthusiasm has waned as communities have begun to voice their concerns. According to Data Center Watch, a project by AI company 10a Labs, approximately $156 billion worth of data center projects faced delays or were blocked in 2025 due to local opposition, moratoriums, and legal challenges.

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Ruth Whittaker, director of technology policy at the center-left think tank Third Way, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “This isn’t just a flash in the pan. This is an issue that policymakers need to be paying attention to and taking seriously.” Her comments reflect a broader sentiment among policymakers and community members who are increasingly wary of the implications of unchecked data center growth.

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Opposition to data centers is rooted in concerns about their substantial energy demands and the potential rise in electricity costs for local residents. Critics argue that the rapid expansion of these facilities could exacerbate existing environmental issues and strain local resources. This backlash is indicative of a larger trend where communities are becoming more proactive in shaping the development landscape in their regions.

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While some lawmakers continue to support data center projects for their economic potential, the recent legislative actions signal a shift in priorities. The Maine bill and the Wisconsin referendum illustrate a growing recognition of community concerns over the long-term impacts of data centers. Local officials are increasingly tasked with balancing economic development with environmental sustainability and public sentiment.

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As the opposition to data centers gains traction, it is anticipated that more states and localities will consider similar measures. This trend could lead to a reevaluation of how data centers are integrated into community planning and energy strategies, potentially reshaping the future of AI infrastructure development in the United States.

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• “This is an issue that policymakers need to be paying attention to and taking seriously.” — Ruth Whittaker, Director of Technology Policy, Third Way.

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