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Green Groups Take Aim at Data Center Boom
20 Jul
Summary
- Major environmental groups are campaigning against data centers.
- New York paused large data center construction pending new standards.
- The movement mirrors past grassroots fights against fracking.
- Data centers are projected to double power usage by 2030.
Environmental organizations have intensified their national campaigns against the burgeoning data center industry, achieving notable successes after a period of regulatory setbacks. Groups like the Sierra Club, NRDC, Earthjustice, and Food and Water Watch are mobilizing volunteers and providing support for local opposition to AI facilities. This strategy aims to re-engage progressive backers and secure funding.
A significant victory occurred recently when New York Governor Kathy Hochul halted most new large-scale data center construction to develop regulatory standards. This pause allows environmental groups to influence new energy source considerations, potentially preventing increased reliance on fossil fuels and their associated carbon emissions.
The current conflict mirrors the environmental movement's past successful grassroots organizing against fracking and pipelines like Keystone XL. Activists are leveraging public concern over rising electricity rates, water usage, and land-use changes associated with data centers. They are employing tactics used in previous campaigns to shape policy and advocate for stricter regulations.
Data centers are projected to double their electricity consumption by 2030, potentially consuming up to 15% of U.S. power, largely from natural gas. This surge threatens recent climate and clean energy gains. National groups are providing crucial legal, research, and organizing support to local movements, mirroring the structure used in the successful Beyond Coal Campaign.
