Data centers are the physical facilities that house the computers that run much of the modern world. Every time you send an email, stream a movie, use online banking, ask ChatGPT a question, or store photos in the cloud, your information is usually processed or stored in a data center.

Think of a data center as a giant, highly secure warehouse filled with:

• Thousands to hundreds of thousands of computer servers. 
• Networking equipment that connects the servers to the internet. 
• Massive cooling systems to keep the computers from overheating. 
• Backup generators and batteries to keep everything running during power failures. 
• Extensive security systems to protect the equipment and data. 

Large technology companies such as Google, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services and Meta operate enormous data centers around the world. Artificial intelligence has dramatically increased demand because AI systems require enormous amounts of computing power.

Why are they unpopular?

Many communities welcome them because they create construction jobs and increase tax revenue. However, they have become controversial for several reasons.

1. Huge electricity consumption

A single large AI data center can consume as much electricity as a small city. Residents often worry that:

• Electric rates could rise. 
• The local power grid may become strained. 
• More power plants will be needed. 

2. Water use

Many data centers use water to cool their equipment. In some regions, especially where water is scarce, millions of gallons of water may be used each day, leading to concerns about competition with residential and agricultural needs.

3. Noise

Large cooling fans and backup generators can produce a constant humming sound. People living nearby sometimes complain that the noise continues 24 hours a day.

4. Limited employment

Although construction creates many temporary jobs, a completed data center might employ only a few dozen to a few hundred permanent workers. Residents sometimes question whether the land could have been used for businesses that create more long-term jobs.

5. Appearance

Many data centers are windowless, warehouse-like buildings. Some neighbors feel they are unattractive and don't fit the character of residential or historic communities.

6. Environmental concerns

Backup diesel generators are tested regularly and can produce emissions; there are also concerns about waste heat. Environmental groups also point to the overall carbon footprint if the electricity comes from fossil fuels.

Why do companies build them anyway?

Demand for computing continues to grow because of:

• Artificial intelligence 
• Cloud computing 
• Streaming video 
• Online gaming 
• Remote work 
• Medical records 
• Banking and financial services 

Without enough data centers, internet services would become slower and less reliable.

Why are you hearing so much about them now?

AI applications require vastly more computing power than traditional internet services. As a result, companies are planning dozens of new data centers across the United States, and many proposed sites have met with local opposition over electricity demand, water use, land use, and noise.

In short, data centers are essential infrastructure for the digital economy, but they often spark local debate because they consume large amounts of power and water while providing relatively few permanent jobs. The challenge for communities is balancing the economic benefits with the impacts on nearby residents and local resources.

Michael Kossove lives in Kauneonga Lake, NY.