AI Data Centers Increase Ground Temperature by Up to 9.1°C, Affecting 340 Million People

AI data centers generate significant heat, raising surrounding ground temperatures by an average of 2°C, with peaks of 9.1°C. JLL predicts global data center capacity will double between 2025 and 2030, with AI driving half the demand. Researchers from the University of Cambridge analyzed satellite temperature data over 20 years near 8,400 AI data centers, finding temperature increases affecting populations up to 10 kilometers away. Over 340 million people live in these warmer zones, particularly in regions of Mexico and Spain.

Published Mar 29, 2026

AI data centers are raising ground temperatures by up to 9.1°C, impacting approximately 340 million people. A study by researchers from the University of Cambridge found that the average increase in surface temperature near these data centers is 2°C, with extremes reaching 9.1°C.

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The analysis utilized satellite temperature data collected over 20 years and focused on data centers located away from densely populated areas. The findings indicate that temperature increases can be felt up to 10 kilometers away, with a significant number of individuals living in affected regions, particularly in Bajío, Mexico, and Aragon, Spain. JLL forecasts that data center capacity will double by 2030, driven largely by AI demand.