Popular Stanford AI professor says Americans are not happy about data centers: 'These are human beings'

Stanford professor Anjney Midha said that local communities are increasingly organizing against data center projects, citing a lack of transparency about their impacts and intended use. He noted that residents often do not receive clear information about energy consumption, water usage, or the purpose of nearby facilities.

Community groups have raised concerns about strain on local power grids, water resources, and property values. Midha argued that the industry's failure to communicate openly has fueled distrust and effective local resistance campaigns.

Data center construction has surged as tech companies expand cloud and AI infrastructure. Midha's comments add an academic voice to the debate, highlighting the gap between industry promises of economic benefits and the lived experience of host communities.