Data Center · U.S. · OpenAI · Tom's Hardware
Local opposition blocked 45 data center projects worth $68 billion in the second quarter of 2026
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Local opposition blocked or delayed $68 billion in data center projects between April and June this year, according to a September 21 citing data from research group Data Center Watch.
Key facts
- Conversely, hyperscalers have spent over $1 trillion on data infrastructure since 2023, with an additional $745 billion in Capex expected in 2026 alone
- Meanwhile, officials across the country are reportedly facing death threats and gunfire over AI data center projects, even as AI data center investments are projected to hit $32 trillion by 2050
- In July this year, 142 AI data center protests were simultaneously staged across 42 states in one weekend
- Local opposition blocked or delayed $68 billion in data center projects between April and June this year, according to a September 21 citing data from research group Data Center Watch
Summary
America’s AI chip rules keep changing, and the rest of the world is paying the price. GTC 2026: Ian Buck press Q&A transcript, VP of Hyperscale and HPC speaks out on shelving CPX and shipping LPU decode this year. Demand for data center CPUs has surged, and AI agents are responsible. The blocked-project figures reflect widespread opposition to data centers across the United States over concerns about land usage, noise pollution, and electricity and water consumption.