Microsoft announces glut of new data centers but says it won’t let your electricity bill go up

Microsoft has announced a significant expansion of its AI data center infrastructure, reaffirming its commitment to build new facilities despite growing local opposition and activism against data center projects across the U.S. In response to community concerns, the company pledged a “community-first” approach, promising to be a “good neighbor” by ensuring that its electricity consumption does not increase local residents’ power bills. Microsoft plans to collaborate closely with utility companies and regulatory bodies to pay rates that fully cover its share of the local grid’s costs, thereby preventing the financial burden from being passed on to residential customers. Additionally, Microsoft committed to creating jobs in the communities hosting its data centers and minimizing water usage, addressing two major points of contention around data center development. These promises come amid heightened political and public scrutiny, with numerous activist groups mobilizing against data center expansions and some projects already canceled or delayed due to community backlash. The company’s assurances also align with recent statements from political leaders emphasizing the importance of protecting consumers from increased utility costs linked to