Microsoft responds to local concerns about AI data centers

Microsoft announced a five-point "Community-First AI Infrastructure" plan to address local concerns about its data centers, and the move follows growing community opposition that has led to cancellations of at least 25 projects.

Microsoft announced a five-point "Community-First AI Infrastructure" plan intended to address local concerns about new data centers. The company said the plan would address electricity and water use, support local jobs and taxes, and increase transparency about siting and energy use. Vice chair and president Brad Smith said the company needs to listen and address concerns directly. The announcement comes after rising local opposition and political scrutiny over data center power and water demands. Key details: - The plan is described as five points focused on energy costs, reduced water use, worker training and local economic contributions, plus more openness about planned sites and power use. - Microsoft said it will ask utilities and public commissions to set rates that cover data center electricity costs and said it would not accept electricity subsidies. - A Heatmap Pro analysis found at least 25 data center projects in the U.S. have been canceled following local backlash. - Senator Elizabeth Warren and other lawmakers sent letters requesting information from Microsoft and other companies about power use and local lobbying. Summary: The announcement is meant to respond to community opposition that has affected project timelines and drawn congressional attention. Microsoft plans to press utilities and commissions on rates and to provide more transparency while inquiries from lawmakers continue. Undetermined at this time.