AI data center projects face US local pushback similar to Bitcoin mining delays

AI-focused data center builds across several US states are facing rising community resistance over power use, infrastructure strain and environmental impact, similar to past opposition to Bitcoin mining facilities. According to Miner Mag, local concerns have already helped delay or block around $64 billion in data center projects, prompting some jurisdictions to pause new developments while they review zoning and grid requirements. Companies including Microsoft and OpenAI are responding with more community-oriented strategies and pledges to shoulder energy costs, as some Bitcoin miners also pivot toward AI and high-performance computing.