George Polk Award

An investigation that created the most comprehensive national database of data centers and revealed hidden costs of the AI boom. The George Polk Awards, which honor original, resourceful, and thought-provoking investigative work, are widely considered among the most prestigious in journalism. The judges said Business Insider’s investigation was “a thoroughly researched series highlighting the strain new and semi-secret facilities that fuel artificial intelligence are likely to place on communities, diverting overwhelming amounts of power, water and economic support.

The largest data centers can guzzle millions of gallons of fresh water a day. Roughly 40% of US ones, Business Insider found, are in the most water-stressed areas of the country. The companies don’t seek out locations that are arid — they go to places like Arizona for reasons including abundant land and stable supplies of electricity.