Poynter is reporting that local newsrooms should prioritize covering data centers, according to faculty member Jon Greenberg. Greenberg, who recently led midterm election workshops, advised that these facilities present a critical topic for public service journalism and newsroom sustainability.
He said data centers, fueled by the rise of artificial intelligence, demand massive amounts of power, potentially supplying 600,000 homes, and can require 100 million gallons of water annually for cooling. Greenberg noted that the issue raises bipartisan concerns regarding consumer utility bills, water and air quality, and general public fears about AI. He cited Texas Rep. Chip Roy as an example of a Republican expressing worries about data centers being "massive sucks on power" and water.
Greenberg suggested newsrooms cover the topic through daily stories, explainers, vertical video, and dedicated landing pages with FAQs. He also advised surveying candidates on their policies, investigating campaign contributions for links to data center companies, and comparing projects in other states. Potential impacts include property tax revenues and construction jobs, alongside downsides such as utility rate increases, water shortages, increased fossil fuel emissions, and changes to local character.
Separately, the University of Maryland's Philip Merrill College of Journalism and Robert H. Smith School of Business announced a new monthly webinar series, "The Business of Journalism in the Age of AI," focusing on journalism's business model and sustainability with AI.