America’s rapid data-center buildout encountered growing local resistance during the first quarter of 2026. Data Center Watch reported that at least 75 projects worth approximately $130 billion were blocked or delayed between January and March, which the organization described as the largest concentration of disrupted projects it had recorded in a single quarter.
The figure does not mean $130 billion disappeared or that all 75 projects were permanently canceled. Data Center Watch combines projects it considers blocked with projects whose original timelines were disrupted. A delayed development may still eventually be constructed, while permitting, infrastructure availability, regulatory reviews and other factors can also influence project timelines.
Community organization around the issue also expanded rapidly. Data Center Watch counted 396 active opposition groups at the end of 2025 and 833 by the end of March 2026, spread across 49 states. Common concerns identified by its research include electricity and utility costs, water consumption, noise, land use and environmental impacts.
And the resistance continued beyond the first quarter. Data Center Watch’s Q2 report says another 45 projects worth nearly $68 billion were blocked or delayed from April through June. Together, the reports illustrate how local approval, infrastructure constraints and community concerns are becoming significant considerations as companies seek to expand U.S. computing capacity.
