AI in Our Backyard: Community Impacts of the AI Infrastructure Boom

The AI revolution needs physical infrastructure — massive data centers that consume enormous amounts of energy and water, often landing in communities already grappling with strained grids, stressed water supplies, and legacy pollution. Across the Mountain West, the boom is forcing hard questions: Who benefits when a data center moves in? Who bears the costs? And are policymakers and community advocates getting a seat at the table early enough to shape outcomes? This panel brings together journalists, water policy experts, environmental justice leaders, and legal advocates to explore what accountability looks like when the tech industry's biggest buildout meets the West's most finite resources. Moderator: Sam Brasch, Climate and Environmental Reporter, Colorado Public Radio Panelists: Ean Thomas Tafoya, Vice President of State Programs, Green LatinosMegan Kemp, Earth JusticeRich Werner, CEO, Upstate Colorado Economic Development By registering for this event, you agree to share your registration information with the organizers of CO Climate Week.