Data centers will harm neighborhoods

From constant noise and air pollution, to water strain and rising neighborhood temperatures, Tom Caffery, raises urgent concerns about the local impacts of data center in the Orlando Sentinel

I am betting that Mark Jamison, the writer of the July 30 guest commentary “Florida should welcome data centers as does other businesses,” has never lived near a data center that he glowingly recommends. There are widespread reports of intrusive noise, both in the audible and subsonic ranges, that is not restricted to the centers’ footprint. Sometimes this is caused by the cooling fans for the multitude of data processors/computers, and other times caused by backup power generators (often running 24/7). The noise is heard far and wide. The generators may also produce air pollution that increases cancer risk or pulmonary symptoms in the locale.

Another issue is the water consumption. The Floridan Aquifer is already strained supporting our population and agriculture. We should insist on “closed loop” systems, and verify that the ongoing water usage is minimal.

A third issue is the “heat dome” created by this concentration of heat-shedding machinery. Measurements taken at existing large data centers show temperatures raised by 4 degrees to 16 degree F in the surrounding area, as much as six miles distant.

There are multiple nationwide environmental organizations calling for a moratorium on data-center development until the impacts can be better defined and mitigation measures catch up to this serious problem. Some will undoubtedly offer many societal and technical benefits but I believe they should not come at the expense of unsuspecting local residents. The costs and benefits of each data-center location to the developer and to the community should always be weighed and made public available.

— Tom Caffery, Third Act Florida