US data center construction falls short as New York and Texas push back

Despite 71% of Americans opposing AI data centers, construction is severely delayed: only about half of planned AI capacity will meet its 2028 target dates, Goldman Sachs says. Delays stem from material shortages, scarce AI chips, power-grid strain, and labor deficits requiring hundreds of thousands of electricians, welders, and plumbers. Just 802 of 3,969 announced US centers are under construction. Analysts call two-thirds of planned capacity implausible; expected $10 trillion investment still exceeds railroad boom. Public opposition includes moratoriums in New York and Texas, but permitting is the biggest hurdle.