Survey Finds 71% Oppose Local AI Data Centers, 53% Oppose Local Nuclear Plant Builds

A March survey found 71% of respondents opposed local AI data center construction, compared with 53% who opposed local nuclear plant construction. The gap was 18 percentage points.

U.S. data centers used about 176 terawatt-hours of electricity in 2023, equal to 4.4% of the nation’s electricity use. Survey respondents cited resource use, environmental effects, quality of life and utility bills as concerns.

The 71% opposition figure also appeared in earlier coverage of local AI data center opposition. The March survey’s comparison with local nuclear plants adds another measure of views on large facilities built in communities.

Separately, Newton County, Georgia, has faced a dispute over water pressure. A local mayor there expects water bills to rise 33% over the next two years.