Data-center opposition raises health concerns and enters midterm campaigns

Opposition to data centers is bringing public-health concerns into midterm campaigns, with residents and candidates challenging projects in Ohio and Arizona, according to Time and KFF Health News. Residents cite noise, air and water pollution. KFF reported that environmental studies have linked air pollution from backup generators to heart conditions, respiratory problems and elevated cancer risks.

A model led by University of California-Riverside researchers estimated data-center emissions could cause nearly 1,300 deaths annually by 2030 and an annual public health burden of more than $20 billion in 2028. The Data Center Coalition said a review of Virginia found backup power use minimal and existing regulations limit potential emissions or impacts.

In Ohio, Grove City has a yearlong moratorium on data-center construction, and residents will vote in November on whether large developments should require voter approval, Time reported. KFF said more than a dozen Ohio referendums or initiatives related to data-center construction will appear on ballots. The issue is also part of competitive congressional and Senate races, the outlets reported.