Data centers have a bigger NIMBY problem than nuclear reactors, a new poll shows

A recent Gallup poll has unveiled startling insights regarding public perception of data centers compared to nuclear reactors. The survey reveals that a significant 71% of Americans prefer to live near a nuclear facility rather than a data center, a striking contrast to the 53% who oppose the construction of a nuclear power plant nearby. Among those opposed to data centers, nearly half, or 48%, expressed strong disapproval. This sentiment spans the political spectrum, with Democrats showing the highest levels of opposition. Specifically, 56% of Democratic respondents indicated they are strongly against local data center projects, while 39% of Republicans and 48% of Independents shared similar sentiments. Furthermore, over a quarter of both Republican and Independent respondents reported being somewhat opposed, compared to only 19% of Democrats. The survey, conducted in March, also highlighted that 46% of participants are highly concerned about the environmental impacts of data centers. The majority of opposition stems from worries about resource consumption. In a follow-up survey, Gallup found that half of those against local data center construction cited resource impact as their primary concern, with 18% specifically mentioning excessive water and energy usage. Quality of life concerns also played a significant role, with nearly a quarter of opponents worried about rising property values and increased living costs, including higher electricity bills. Interestingly, anti-AI sentiment was less of a driving factor for opposition, with only 10% expressing dislike for the technology and a mere 4% stating a lack of trust in it.