Brockovich Data Center Reporting – U.S. AI Data Center Awareness & Issue Map

3 min read Original article ↗

Erin, environmental advocate with 30+ years promoting sustainable practices, leading the AI Data Centers Community Awareness initiative

AI Data Centers &
Our Communities

An initiative by Erin  ·  Environmental Advocate

"The RACE to build AI infrastructures is unfolding town by town across America. In some places, data centers are welcomed. In others, they are delayed, contested or abandoned altogether. This MAP captures the real-world footprint of that race — revealing patterns of growth, conflict and uncertainty.

I am watching as YOU, the communities show up and speak out. In the famous words of Mark Twain … “The secret of getting ahead is getting started,” so let’s go!

— Erin"

Many people have been reaching out to me regarding an existing or upcoming AI data center that is located in the heart of their community.

Key Concerns with AI Data Centers

Energy Consumption

High energy usage contributes to significant environmental impact and escalating costs for surrounding communities.

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Water Usage

Cooling systems often require substantial water resources, straining local water supplies and ecosystems.

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E-Waste

Frequent hardware upgrades and replacements generate significant volumes of electronic waste.

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Location Risks

Natural disasters, flooding, or geopolitical instability can disrupt operations and impact local infrastructure.

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Scalability & Efficiency

Growing demand strains local resources and infrastructure, often outpacing community planning capacity.

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Noise

Constant humming from cooling systems, generators, and substations can disrupt sleep, daily life, and wildlife in surrounding neighborhoods.

AI Data Centers Across the United States

A map of major AI data centers in the U.S. that are either operational or under construction, overlaid with locations where community members have emailed in concerns. Click any marker for details.

Operational

built & running

Under Construction

announced or building

Proposed

in pipeline / pending approval

Community Reported

locations nationwide

Last updated: June 17, 2026

Operational

Under construction

Proposed

Community Reported

Note: This map shows publicly announced, major AI-focused and hyperscale data centers running AI workloads. Each marker's popup includes its source citation. Many smaller or unannounced facilities are not listed. Know of one missing? Report it here.

"Community Reported" pins show data submitted by concerned residents across the US about AI data centers. Note that locations might be approximate, covering reported zip codes or nearby areas.

Report Your AI Data Center Issue

Use the form below to share what you've witnessed in your community. Your report helps build a clearer picture for everyone.