Why are AI data centres facing a backlash? | The Economist (Level 1)

Large computer buildings are called data centers. They power Artificial Intelligence (AI). Today, these buildings are getting very big. Some are the size of small cities. Because they are so big, they use a lot of electricity. In Ireland, data centers use 30% of all power. In the United States, places like Maine and Utah are trying to stop new data centers. People disagree about these buildings. Some people like them. They say data centers bring money for schools and create new jobs. They also say people need them to use AI tools like ChatGPT. But many people do not like them. The buildings are loud and take up green land. People worry that AI will take away human jobs. They also worry about the environment because data centers need so much energy. Finally, some politicians do not like the rich men who own these AI companies.