A data centre is usually where the so-called magic of any larger scale AI workload actually happens. In order to fulfill its AI ambitions, big tech has overseen a rapid infrastructure build out. Resource-intensive and often loud, they make for exceptionally poor neighbours.
Wisconsin residents filed a class-action lawsuit against Microsoft on Wednesday, alleging that the company’s Fairwater data centre situated in Mount Pleasant emits “unreasonable and excessive noise onto Plaintiffs’ properties.” The suit is seeking an unspecified amount in damages. The filing alleges that the source of the noise pollution is “diesel generators and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, including chillers, cooling towers, air-handling units, and condenser fans” (via Law360).
Speaking of class, the filing defines this as “All owner-occupants and renters of residential property residing within one and one-half (1.5) miles of Defendant’s Data Center at any time within the applicable statute of limitations.” Reportedly, that could end up including more than 1,000 homes.
It’s also alleged that this industrial noise can see the community facing levels between 48 to 60 decibels. However, the residents also allege the data centre creates a ‘low hum’ of infrasound that is not easily measured by the A-weighted decibel scale, and therefore is not subject to most municipal noise ordinances. One plaintiff claims they had to change their work schedule as “the constant noise [affected] his sleep.”