Satellite and drone images reveal big delays in US data center construction

Satellite imagery analyzed by the Financial Times and SynMax reveals that nearly 40 percent of US data center projects may not be completed as scheduled this year. This analysis, which cross-checked progress against public statements and IIR Energy permit documents, indicates major projects from companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and OpenAI are "likely to miss completion dates by more than three months." The delays stem from "chronic shortages of labor, power and equipment," alongside difficulties in securing necessary permits. Construction executives involved with OpenAI projects specifically cited a lack of tradespeople, such as electricians and pipe fitters, as a significant challenge. These issues are hindering the massive buildout of AI data centers, which require substantial electricity and face growing local resistance.