Shares of companies involved in the data center industry have seen a significant increase in scrutiny over the past year, as protests against new developments have erupted in dozens of states across the United States. According to Data Center Watch, an organization tracking anti-data center activism, there are currently 142 different activist groups across 24 states organizing against data center projects. These groups are raising concerns about the environmental and potential health impacts of these projects, as well as the ways in which artificial intelligence is being used.

At the heart of the issue is the rapid growth of the data center industry, which has seen a surge in demand for computing power and storage. This growth has led to the construction of new data centers, many of which are being built in rural areas where land is cheaper and zoning regulations are less stringent. However, this growth has also raised concerns about the environmental impact of these facilities, which can consume massive amounts of energy and generate significant amounts of heat.

"We're seeing a perfect storm of issues here," said Emily Chen, a spokesperson for Data Center Watch. "The data center industry is growing so quickly that it's starting to show up in people's backyards, and that's sparking concerns about the environmental and health impacts of these facilities."

One of the key concerns is the use of artificial intelligence in data centers. Many companies are using AI to optimize their data center operations, but this has raised concerns about the potential for bias and the impact on jobs. "We're seeing a lot of companies using AI to automate tasks and reduce labor costs, but this is also raising concerns about the impact on workers," said Chen.

The protests against data center developments are not limited to environmental and health concerns. Many activists are also raising concerns about the impact of data centers on local electricity bills. As data centers consume more and more energy, they are driving up demand for electricity, which can lead to higher rates for consumers.

The data center industry has long been a behind-the-scenes player, but it's now coming under increasing scrutiny from regulators and the public. In response to the growing concerns, some companies are beginning to take steps to address the environmental and social impacts of their operations. For example, some companies are investing in renewable energy sources and implementing energy-efficient technologies.

As the debate over data centers continues to heat up, it's clear that this is an issue that will only continue to grow in importance. With the rise of the digital economy, data centers are becoming increasingly critical to the functioning of modern society. However, this growth also raises important questions about the environmental and social impacts of these facilities.

In the coming months, it's likely that we'll see even more activism and debate around data centers. As the industry continues to grow, it's clear that the concerns of activists and regulators will only continue to grow in importance. With the stakes high, it's likely that we'll see significant changes in the way data centers are developed and operated in the years to come.