绝非玩笑：数据中心大战正让我们偏离真正的解决方案

Core Viewpoint - The opposition against data center construction in Wisconsin, led by comedian Charlie Berens, highlights growing concerns about the impact of technology companies on local communities, including rising electricity costs and environmental degradation [1][2][5]. Group 1: Opposition Movement - Charlie Berens has mobilized significant public opposition against data centers, claiming they will lead to job losses and increased electricity costs for residents [1][2]. - Since Berens initiated his campaign in August, several data center projects, including one by Microsoft, have been canceled due to rising opposition [1][2]. - The movement reflects broader issues within the tech industry, as opponents leverage social media to amplify their concerns about community impacts [1][2]. Group 2: Economic and Employment Impact - Data centers are projected to significantly boost local employment, with construction jobs expected to increase to 3 million hours by 2025, six times the hours worked in 2022 [4][10]. - Local officials believe that data centers could expand tax bases in some towns by up to tenfold, providing substantial funding for schools and emergency services [10]. - Tech companies are also investing in community college vocational training and grid upgrades, which are unprecedented commitments compared to other industries [10]. Group 3: Environmental and Health Concerns - Environmental and health organizations, including the Sierra Club, are actively opposing the expansion of fossil fuel power facilities for AI projects, citing harmful impacts on users and climate [2][5]. - Berens and his allies have raised alarm over potential health risks associated with data centers, linking them to respiratory issues and other health problems without substantial evidence [5][11]. - The local community's response has been intense, with significant public turnout at city council meetings to voice opposition [2][11]. Group 4: Corporate Responsibility and Trust Issues - Tech companies have made binding financial commitments to ensure that the public does not bear the costs of their electricity usage, but trust remains a significant issue [10]. - Berens argues that the lack of transparency in agreements related to data centers erodes public trust, especially given past experiences with monopolistic utility companies [10]. - The White House is drafting a voluntary agreement requiring tech companies to cover infrastructure costs for data centers, ensuring no negative impact on local residents [12].