Half of all new electricity demand in the U.S. last year came from data centers—just as public opinion of them plummets

Data centers accounted for approximately 50% of new U.S. electricity demand growth in 2025, driven by rapid AI infrastructure buildout, according to the International Energy Agency. The IEA projects this trend to continue through 2030, while the sector faces mounting public and political opposition over energy usage, environmental impact, and rising electricity costs.