Why I wrote Hyperscale

2026-07-03 · Source: Disconnect · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, short

Summary

The article introduces the book "Hyperscale: The Ambition and Excess of Big Tech's Data Empires," which addresses the escalating global opposition to hyperscale data centers. Communities in locations like Great Torrington, England; the Blue Mountains, Australia; Vancouver and Hamilton, Canada; and across the United States are actively blocking new data center projects, with 75 major projects worth \$130 billion blocked in the US in the first three months of 2026 alone. This resistance stems from concerns over soaring power bills, water consumption, light pollution, and noise, exacerbated by the rapid expansion of infrastructure for generative AI. The author's book aims to explain the origins of this unsustainable development, document successful community pushback against powerful tech companies, and advocate for a technology development model prioritizing public good over shareholder profits. The book is scheduled for release on October 20 in Canada and the United States, and on November 5 in the United Kingdom.

Key takeaway

For community organizers or policymakers evaluating new data center proposals, this content highlights the significant and growing public opposition driven by environmental and social impacts. You should anticipate strong local resistance to hyperscale projects, especially those tied to AI, and consider alternative technology development models that prioritize community well-being over unchecked expansion. Engage with local groups early to understand concerns and explore sustainable infrastructure solutions.

Key insights

The rapid expansion of hyperscale data centers for AI faces global public backlash due to environmental and social costs.

Principles

• Unchecked tech expansion risks community well-being.
• Public resistance can halt powerful corporate projects.
• Sustainable tech development prioritizes public good.

Method

The article describes a method of community organizing and direct action to oppose data center development, involving petitions, public meetings, and protests to force moratoriums or project cancellations.

In practice

• Organize local opposition to data center builds.
• Advocate for public good in tech development.
• Pre-order "Hyperscale" for detailed case studies.

Topics

• Hyperscale Data Centers
• Community Opposition
• Generative AI Infrastructure
• Environmental Impact
• Public Good Technology
• Book Release

Best for: Investor, CTO, VP of Engineering/Data, General Interest, Policy Maker, Tech Journalist

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by Disconnect.