As AI guzzles water and energy, we are already facing a choice: datacentres or homes? | John Harris

What happens when the places we cherish become collateral damage in the tech boom? In Slough, a town now at the heart of a growing dilemma, the answer is stark and concerning.

Last Monday, under a sweltering 28C sun, I ventured into the Slough Trading Estate, a site that once symbolized industrial promise. Today, however, it's entwined with a less glamorous reality—the rapid expansion of datacentres. These facilities, crucial for our digital age, are set to multiply significantly as the UK government aims to triple their numbers.

But this ambitious growth comes at a cost. With the UK facing serious challenges like drought conditions and soaring temperatures, the demand for resources like electricity and water is escalating. This raises an important question: what will be sacrificed to fuel our insatiable appetite for data?

As datacentres proliferate, they threaten not just the local environment but also potential new housing developments. Communities that hope for growth and renewal may find themselves overshadowed by these tech giants, which consume vast amounts of energy and water.

Why should you care? The shift towards more datacentres can impact the very fabric of your hometown—perhaps even yours. As urban plans evolve, the balance between technological advancement and sustainable living is becoming increasingly precarious.

The story of Slough is a reflection of a broader issue facing many areas across the UK and beyond. How do we embrace technological progress while safeguarding the future of our communities?

The answers might be complex, but as this situation unfolds, it’s essential to stay informed. Curious about how this will develop and the implications for other towns like yours?

For the latest verified details, be sure to read the full report at The Guardian.