Data centers lose public support as perceived costs rise
Data center projects now face a more skeptical public: 54% of U.S. adults say they are mostly bad for the environment, up from 39% in January, while 50% say they hurt home energy costs. Pew’s survey, conducted July 20 to August 9, 2026, also found negative views rose for nearby quality of life, local jobs and tax revenue. The shift makes local opposition a bigger constraint for new builds.