Top 7 Common Myths About Data Centers
At the recent 7x24 Exchange Fall Conference, data center design and development experts Dr. Denitza Arguirova of Provident Data Centers and Dutch Wickes of Ci Design, Inc., shared insights to debunk seven common myths about data centers that frequently arise in community discussions. By separating fact from fiction, they aimed to help communities gain a clear understanding of the true role and impact of data centers today.
Myth: Data centers can be built anywhere
Reality: When it comes to choosing a location for a data center, there’s a very structured process to make sure it’s a good fit for the community and meets specific operational needs. For a data center to operate efficiently, it needs reliable power, strong utilities, high-speed internet connectivity, and secure infrastructure and several other critical factors:
Power & Electricity
Fiber Paths
Weather Conditions
Infrastructure
Accessibility
It’s important to emphasize our commitment to ensuring that local resources, like power and connectivity, aren’t depleted by the data center. We want communities to feel confident that data centers are thoughtfully integrated into the area without straining local resources.
Myth: Data centers are being replaced by the cloud
Reality: While some may perceive that "the cloud" eliminates the necessity for data centers, the reality is that the cloud is dependent on these facilities. Major cloud providers like AWS, Google Cloud, and Microsoft Azure operate vast networks of data centers worldwide, where data is stored, processed, and managed. When we “move to the cloud,” we’re actually using these physical facilities to access services, store files, and run applications. Far from replacing data centers, the cloud drives demand for them, as each new cloud-based service relies on data centers to deliver the speed, security, and scalability users expect.
Myth: Data centers are killing the environment
Reality: Data centers are increasingly adopting sustainable design & efficient energy strategies. While data centers do consume a considerable amount of energy, the industry is making significant strides toward enhancing sustainability and efficiency. Many modern data centers now employ greener data designs and innovative energy strategies to minimize their environmental impact. Companies are investing in renewable energy sources like wind and solar to power their facilities, while also adopting energy-efficient technologies such as advanced cooling systems, AI-driven power management, and optimized server utilization. Additionally, many data centers participate in carbon offset programs and strive for certifications like LEED to meet environmental standards. With these efforts, data centers are increasingly working to support both our digital needs and a more sustainable future.
Myth: Data centers are unattractive buildings that take away from neighborhood appeal
Reality: Modern data centers can be community assets. Today's data centers are evolving beyond simple, boxy structures into architecturally thoughtful and community-friendly facilities. Many are designed with modern exteriors that blend with or even enhance their surroundings, using sustainable landscaping, green rooftops, and natural materials. In urban areas, data centers are being designed to complement local aesthetics and even include amenities like parks, walking trails, or public art to engage with the community.
Myth: Data Centers use up all our power & Wi-Fi connectivity
Reality: While data centers require considerable power and connectivity, their development often benefits the surrounding community’s infrastructure rather than depleting it. Many data centers partner with local utilities to improve grid stability and invest in renewable energy sources, which can bolster the region’s power capacity and resilience. Data center investments often drive the expansion of fiber networks and high-speed internet access, improving connectivity for local homes and businesses. Additionally, these facilities frequently include backup power sources, which can assist the community during power outages or emergencies. Put simply, the resources supporting data centers often enhance infrastructure in ways that benefit the entire community.
Myth: Data Centers are going to negatively impact neighborhood property value
Reality: Studies examining property values around data centers have shown no significant negative impact on residential properties nearby. In fact, well-designed data centers with appealing architecture and landscaping can blend seamlessly into their surroundings, and in some cases, even contribute positively to local property appeal. The investment these facilities bring to a region often leads to infrastructure improvements, economic growth, and job opportunities, which can support neighborhood vitality. As a result, data centers can coexist with residential areas without harming property values and may even enhance the community’s attractiveness.
Myth: Data Centers do not help the communities
Reality: Data Centers provide many community benefits such as improved utilities and power resilience, improved infrastructure, such as road improvements, and opportunities for community development, such as parks or trails.
Resilient power grids
Improved Wi-Fi connectivity
Tax benefits for better schools, new learning programs & tools
Minimal traffic impact
Road improvements
Opportunities for park improvements, walking & biking trails
In conclusion, successfully integrating data centers into communities begins with dispelling the myths and discussing the truths about how they impact the area. By addressing misconceptions early on, we can establish a clear and honest dialogue with all stakeholders. This includes establishing effective communication channels to ensure a well-organized flow of information and providing simple, fundamental definitions to clarify the role and benefits of data centers. Ongoing engagement through community meetings and managed feedback channels ensures that concerns are heard and addressed. By fostering open conversations, we can help communities understand that data centers are valuable assets that support growth, infrastructure development, and connectivity.
