Microsoft announces glut of new data centers but says it won't let your electricity bill go up
TechCrunch • • business
Key Points:
- Microsoft announced a "community-first" approach to expanding its AI infrastructure, promising to be a good neighbor by ensuring local electricity costs are not passed on to residents and working closely with utility companies to pay its fair share.
- The company also pledged to create jobs in local communities and minimize water usage at its data centers, addressing environmental and employment concerns linked to data center buildouts.
- This announcement follows significant public backlash and protests against data center construction, with over 140 activist groups in 24 states opposing such developments and causing Microsoft to cancel or face opposition to some projects.
- The issue has drawn political attention, with President Trump promising changes to prevent Americans from bearing increased electricity costs due to AI infrastructure expansion.
- Microsoft’s commitments
