Data center backlash spreads across Europe and Asia

Public opposition to powerhungry data centers is growing beyond the United States, with communities in Europe and Asia raising concerns about electricity use, water demand and land use. The article says the pressure is creating new risks for developers and investors as projects face delays, tighter rules and occasional cancellations. In Europe, resistance has contributed to rejected or restricted projects in several countries, including Scotland, Denmark, Spain and the U.K. Researchers cited in the story say the pushback has already affected tens of billions of dollars in planned investment. Local concerns often focus on grid strain, higher electricity prices and water consumption. South Korea is also seeing more conflict over data center construction, especially near residential areas in Seoul and nearby cities. While the government continues to support AI infrastructure, local residents and officials are seeking stricter approval rules. The article says the broader AI buildout continues, but the tension between national ambitions and local opposition is becoming harder for developers to ignore.