Data Centers and Local Environmental Considerations
As of 2025, the U.S. has around 3,600 data centers, including over 600 hyperscale centers that support AI and demand significant energy resources. With the rise of AI and digital services, local leaders are increasingly focused on how data center development affects economic growth and sustainability. At the NLC’s 2025 Congressional City Conference, officials discussed both the opportunities and challenges these facilities present, showing strong interest in continued dialogue on the issue.
