Survey: Data Center Opposition Is Rising Quickly
Techstrong IT, Friday, June 5th, 2026
Public opposition to data center construction surged from 52% to 70% in six months, driven by electricity cost concerns.
A Compass Poll by Embold Research found voter resistance to local data center development nearly doubled between December 2025 and May 2026, with strong opposition climbing from 36% to 58%. Nearly three-quarters of respondents believe data centers would raise local power prices.
The survey identifies a potential remedy: facilities generating their own renewable energy receive more favorable views, particularly among Democrats and Independents. Real-world consequences are mounting, with at least 20 proposed projects canceled in Q1 2026 following public backlash, eliminating over $41 billion in planned investment and several gigawatts of anticipated electricity demand.