Europe sees $42 billion data center backlash, US impact $77 billion
Public opposition to AI‑related data centers is spreading from the United States to Europe and Asia, raising investment risk. Research from STL Partners says roughly $42 billion of European data‑center projects have been delayed or cancelled, compared with about $77 billion in the United States. The European Data Center Monitor recorded more than 70 projects rejected or restricted between…
Key points
- $42 billion of European data‑center investments delayed or cancelled, per STL Partners
- More than 70 European projects rejected or restricted between January and April, exceeding 2025 total
- South Korean officials will need consent from a majority of residents within 200 meters and a three‑stage review system
In South Korea, residents of the Geumcheon district have protested a new data‑center permit, and officials plan to require consent from a majority of residents living within 200 meters of proposed sites, adding a three‑stage review system. Denmark has passed an emergency law that could place data centers at the back of the queue for grid power applications, while Spain is proposing rules that demand 80% renewable electricity. Executives such as Asya Walters (Alvarez & Marsal), Eulalia Flo (Equinix) and Dominic Ward (Verne) note that the backlash can increase costs and delay projects, even as the AI boom continues.
America’s data center fight is a preview of what's to come for the rest of the world
CNBC Technology · 3 October 2026
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