More than 230 environmental and justice groups are urging Congress to pause new AI and cryptocurrency data centers. They say the industry is expanding too fast and without enough rules. As a result, many communities face serious risks to their health and resources.
Communities Nationwide Raise Concerns Over Rapid Data Center Growth
These groups warn that companies are rushing to build massive data centers in rural and suburban areas. Local residents often protest these plans. However, officials still approve many projects. This pattern leaves people feeling ignored and unprotected.
The coalition argues that the rapid expansion is creating one of the biggest environmental and social threats of this generation. They believe Congress must act quickly. They want lawmakers to place a national moratorium on new facilities until strong regulations exist.
The groups outline several harms linked to the surge in data centers. First, they warn that electricity demand will skyrocket. Data centers run nonstop, and experts expect their numbers to triple in five years. This growth could use as much electricity as 30 million homes.
Next, they highlight the heavy use of water. These facilities rely on constant cooling. As a result, they may use water equal to more than 18 million households. Many communities already face water shortages, so this demand raises deep worries.
Energy Use, Water Strain, Climate Impact, and Rising Bills Drive Public Anxiety
They also point to climate impacts. Most data centers still depend on fossil fuels. This dependence increases carbon pollution and adds pressure to an already warming planet. Analysts estimate that new AI data centers could release up to 44 million tons of carbon dioxide in just five years.
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Furthermore, residents near data centers often see their electricity bills rise. In some states, costs increased by 12% to 16% within a year. National electricity prices have risen more than 21% since 2021. The groups say data center growth plays a major role in these increases.
They also cite job concerns. Companies investing heavily in AI are replacing many entry-level office roles. Some studies suggest nearly half of these jobs may disappear. Meanwhile, many residents feel they gain little benefit from the technology that is reshaping their communities.
Because of these issues, public frustration continues to grow. People are speaking out in town halls across the country. In several places, meetings have become tense as residents demand answers and protections.
Local Pushback Expands as National Policy Debates Intensify
Opposition is spreading quickly. Several large data center projects worth billions have been paused or blocked in states such as Texas, Oregon, and Tennessee. Even in regions that strongly supported recent national leaders, people now question these developments. For example, residents in parts of Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Wisconsin have raised concerns about water loss, noise, and rising bills.
Recent polls show a sharp shift in public opinion. In one month, support for a ban on new data centers rose from 37% to more than 40%. This change comes as companies attempt rapid expansion into rural and suburban zones.
However, federal leaders are pushing in the opposite direction. They want faster approval of new facilities. Some officials have discussed overriding state rules. Local leaders fear these moves could limit their ability to protect their communities.
The coalition insists that the country needs strong national rules before approving more facilities. They argue that the current pace creates serious risks for energy systems, water supplies, and household budgets. They believe a national moratorium is the only way to prevent further harm.
Their message to Congress remains direct. They urge lawmakers to act immediately and pause data center growth until safety, environmental, and community protections are firmly in place.
