Trump says large data centers will have to generate their own electricity
President Donald Trump said large data centers will be required to generate their own electricity and return excess power to local communities or the grid. The proposed policy is intended to prevent data centers from driving up electricity prices, amid broader concerns about their water use, pollution and impact on communities.
President Donald Trump said the federal government will require new large and hyperscale data centers to produce their own electricity and sell or provide excess power to neighboring communities or the electric grid. He argued the policy could prevent higher electricity costs and potentially reduce prices, while encouraging communities to negotiate financial agreements that would allow data center projects to proceed.
The comments come as residents and policymakers debate the effects of data center growth, including electricity demand, water consumption, noise and pollution. The article also notes that some states have paused data center tax incentive programs, while New York has enacted a statewide freeze on new hyperscale facilities. Technology companies have promoted data centers as necessary for artificial intelligence development, but the article does not identify a specific company project tied to Trump's proposed requirement.