Microsoft Vows to Limit Data Center Electricity Costs in the U.S. After Trump Highlights Consumer Energy Concerns

Microsoft has announced a major initiative aimed at ensuring its rapidly expanding network of AI‑powered data centers in the United States does not drive up electricity costs for local residents. The tech giant, responding to mounting community pushback and rising utility prices, pledged that it will cover the full electricity costs associated with running its data centers rather than allowing those expenses to be passed on to households or taxpayers. To achieve this, Microsoft said it will work with utilities and regulators to set higher rates for large industrial customers like itself, absorb infrastructure costs, and avoid seeking local tax breaks that could shift the burden onto residents. In addition to the electricity commitment, Microsoft outlined a broader “community‑first” plan that includes replenishing more water than its data centers consume, increasing transparency around energy and water usage, and investing in local workforce training and AI education. Company president and vice chair Brad Smith emphasized that these steps are intended to be responsible and respectful of the communities where the facilities operate. President Donald Trump publicly praised Microsoft’s pledge, framing it as a way to protect Americans from higher energy bills amid concerns about the rising cost of living and the growing energy demands of AI infrastructure. Trump's remarks come as local opposition has stalled or shelved several large data‑center projects across several states. #Microsoft #DataCenters #ElectricityCosts #AIInfrastructure #SlimScan #GrowthStocks #CANSLIM