Presenter says data centers can strain power systems and are linked to PFAS concerns

A presenter answering audience questions said data centers run continuously and rely heavily on electricity, which can stress local grids. "Data centers typically run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and they're powered by electricity," the presenter said, noting that during outages companies commonly rely on diesel backup generators that "can cause pollution concerns for local communities." The comments framed power demand and generator emissions as immediate local environmental issues.

The presenter also alerted listeners to chemical risks linked to data center operations. "Studies have also linked data centers to releasing PFAs or forever chemicals that can have negative impacts on health," the presenter said, citing research ties between operations and long-lasting pollutants. While the session provided no new study data, the presenter emphasized the need for communities and regulators to track emissions and exposure pathways going forward.