75 US Data Center Projects Worth $130 Billion Blocked or Delayed in Q1 2026 Amid Local Backlash
By
Devesh Beri
Summary
A new report from Data Center Watch reveals that at least 75 US data center projects (worth ~$130 billion) were blocked or delayed in Q1 2026 alone, matching the total value of all halted projects in 2025. The backlash is driven by local and state opposition over energy consumption, water usage, noise pollution, environmental impact, and limited job creation. Over 833 anti-data center groups are now active across 49 states, reflecting growing public frustration with the rapid expansion of cloud and AI infrastructure.
Source
bsky75 US Data Center Projects Worth $130 Billion Blocked or Delayed in Q1 2026 Amid Local Backlashextremetech.comKey quotes
· 3 pulled'Unprecedented Surge' in Local Backlash Puts 75 New US Data Centers on Hold in Just 3 Months
Data Center Watch counts 833 anti‑data center groups active in 49 states in early 2026
That's roughly the value of all US data center projects blocked or delayed throughout 2025.
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