Clayco Survey: Americans Largely Support Local Data Centers

(Image courtesy of Clayco; Breakout image courtesy of Brett Sayles/pexels.com)

Clayco, Chicago, polled Americans on how receptive they are to data centers being built in their communities, finding 73% would support a local data center within 20 miles of their home if it brought jobs, investment and tax relief.

Over a third–37%–said they would actually advocate for its construction.

Seventy percent said they believe data centers are important, but more than half also don’t know exactly what types of services and utilities they power.

As for what would sway local residents to be in favor of data centers near them, 64% pointed to the creation of highly paid skilled jobs, 62% cited increased local development, 59% listed reduced local taxes and 27% highlighted sustainable cooling technologies used to reduce noise pollution.

In terms of concerns that locals would have, 71% listed rising energy costs, 64% pointed to the strain on the local development power grid and 60% worried about negative impacts on the local environment.

And, 56% of respondents said they are concerned that the U.S. is falling behind other global powers when it comes to technology and infrastructure projects.

“Data centers are essential infrastructure, powering everything from business operations to everyday digital life,” said Ryan McGuire, President of Construction at Clayco and Clayco Compute. “As demand continues to grow, it’s critical that we build responsibly and work to improve public understanding. Open communication and public education are key to building community trust and unlocking the full economic potential of these projects.”