IrelandA former White House adviser, Brad Setser, notes a growing backlash against data centres in the United States, citing concerns over their impact on electricity costs and limited job creation. He suggests that U.S. tech companies may prefer building data centres in Ireland, where such projects face less resistance. The Irish government has plans to expand data centres, especially in regions with available energy infrastructure. Setser highlights that American opposition to data centres has risen significantly, crossing party lines, with nearly two-thirds of respondents opposing new constructions. This shift is attributed to community concerns over resource strain and minimal economic benefits. Similar criticisms are emerging in Ireland, where electricity demand for data centres has surged.
Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the U.S. backlash against data centres as a progressive concern, emphasizing environmental and social impacts, and suggests that U.S. tech companies might benefit from shifting operations to Ireland. While not overtly partisan, the focus on corporate tax policies and community-led
