A recent survey of leading economists highlights concerns that the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) may not deliver the anticipated job growth and could lead to increased utility costs for consumers. The polling, conducted among chief economists from both public and private sectors, reveals a broad expectation that AI adoption will rise significantly and enhance productivity. However, experts remain cautious about the overall benefits for the wider population.

The findings come amid growing public opposition, particularly in the United States, to the construction of large-scale data centers that support AI computations. Critics argue that the energy-intensive nature of these facilities, which require substantial electricity and water resources, could negatively impact local communities and consumer utility bills.

According to the survey, 78 percent of the economists surveyed agree that investments in data centers will be a major driver of global economic growth in the coming years. Despite this optimism about growth, 79 percent of respondents anticipate resistance from local populations concerned about the environmental and infrastructural demands of these developments.

The results underscore the tension between the economic potential of AI technologies and the practical challenges they pose to communities and resource management. While the technological advances offer promising productivity improvements, there remains uncertainty about how broadly these gains will translate into employment opportunities or benefit the general public.

As governments and corporations continue to invest heavily in AI infrastructure, balancing innovation with sustainable practices and community impact will be a critical issue moving forward. The survey reflects a nuanced outlook among experts who recognize the transformative potential of AI but caution against overlooking its social and environmental implications.