Yes
I do.
No
I don’t.
President Donald Trump has emphasized the importance of keeping the United States competitive as artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies reshape the global economy.
One major part of that technological expansion is happening largely outside public view: the rapid construction of massive data centers.
Data centers contain the computer servers and networking equipment that power everything from artificial intelligence systems and cloud computing to online banking, streaming services, business software and countless other digital services Americans use every day.
As demand for artificial intelligence grows, technology companies are seeking additional computing capacity. That has increased pressure to construct new facilities and expand America’s energy infrastructure.
Supporters of additional data-center development argue that the United States cannot afford to fall behind competitors in the race for artificial intelligence and advanced computing. They contend that domestic infrastructure can create construction jobs, attract investment and help ensure that strategically important technology remains based in America.
There are economic and national-security considerations as well. Artificial intelligence is increasingly viewed as important not only for private businesses but also for scientific research, manufacturing and national defense.
However, rapid data-center construction has also raised concerns in communities where large facilities are being proposed.
These complexes can require enormous amounts of electricity, and some facilities also consume substantial water resources for cooling. Critics have questioned whether rapid expansion could place additional pressure on local electrical grids, water supplies and utility costs.
That creates a difficult balancing act for policymakers.
America wants to remain a global technology leader, but communities also want reliable electricity, affordable utility bills and responsible development.
With AI expected to play an increasingly important role in America’s economy, decisions being made today about data centers could have consequences for decades.