Data Center Knowledge

AI ‘Virtual Residents’ Offer Early Read on Data Center Sentiment

University of California, Riverside researchers deployed large‑language‑model agents as “virtual residents” to capture community sentiment on data‑center proposals early in the planning cycle. The AI agents consistently highlighted water consumption, utility costs and electricity demand as primary concerns, while identifying tax revenue and broader economic development as perceived benefits. Sentiment varied by county but broadly mirrored results from traditional public‑opinion surveys, indicating the framework can act as a low‑cost, early‑stage screening tool. Experts caution that synthetic feedback cannot replace genuine human engagement and warn of AI hallucinations and bias.