Residents and Researchers Oppose AI Data Center Expansion

Residents and researchers are raising alarms over the rapid expansion of AI data centers in rural America, with a focus on Prince William County, Virginia. Elena Schlossberg and the Coalition to Protect Prince William County argue that these facilities displace local businesses, strain public resources, and degrade the quality of life for residents.

Academic research highlights significant economic and environmental costs. Studies from the University of Michigan and University of California, Riverside indicate that data centers often secure lower electricity rates through bulk power purchase agreements, which can drive up costs for local residents. For example, energy prices rose more than 20% in Clark County, Illinois, and 39% in Laffite, Louisiana, following similar agreements signed by Meta Platforms Inc.

Environmental concerns center on the use of diesel backup generators. One study estimates that the resulting air pollution could create a U.S. public health burden exceeding $20 billion per year by 2028. In response, critics are calling for the repeal of corporate tax breaks and the implementation of stricter emission standards to mitigate health risks.