Executive Briefing: If the Data-Center Backlash Leaves Fewer AI Suppliers, Who Will Your Company Rent Capacity From in 2027, and at What Price?
Americans are using more AI, and on November 3 voters went against data-center development in 40 of 41 local ballot measures. What that means for who owns the capacity and where the jobs go.
TL;DR
- Voters rejected a majority of new data-center developments in local ballot measures.
- AI usage among American adults continues to grow significantly.
- Opposition to data centers stems from a desire to protect opportunities for ordinary people against automation.
- The backlash against the AI industry presents an opportunity for larger companies to acquire projects at lower costs.
- Delays in data center construction can lead to financial hardship for smaller providers, forcing them to sell.
- Investment and jobs may shift to regions and companies that can successfully deliver AI capacity.
- There is a need for companies to assess their AI commitments and dependencies on un-built capacity.