New Survey finds Americans are Skeptical of Big Tech’s Pledge to Pay for All AI Data Center Energy Costs
A Consumer Reports survey reveals that a large majority of Americans are skeptical of tech companies' pledges to fully cover AI data center energy costs. Many are concerned about rising electricity bills due to data center expansion and advocate for laws to ensure companies pay their fair share. The House Energy and Commerce Committee is expected to vote on a "Ratepayer Protection Act."
Washington, DC - A recent Consumer Reports survey reveals widespread skepticism among Americans regarding major tech companies' promises to fully cover the energy costs of their rapidly expanding AI data centers. The survey, conducted in May 2026, found that 75% of 2,082 US adults expressed low confidence in the Ratepayer Protection Pledge, signed by seven prominent AI companies—Amazon, Google, Meta, Microsoft, OpenAI, Oracle, and xAI—at the White House in March 2026. This pledge committed companies to bear all energy and infrastructure costs for their facilities "no matter what."
The skepticism cuts across political lines, with 83% of Democrats and 67% of Republicans lacking confidence. This follows an earlier November 2025 survey by Consumer Reports, which indicated that 78% of Americans were concerned about rising household energy bills due to new data center construction. Chris Harto, manager of sustainability advocacy at Consumer Reports, highlighted that promises alone are insufficient to address public concerns about these energy-intensive facilities driving up electricity costs in communities.
Americans' preferred solution for ensuring accountability is through laws and regulations, chosen by 47% of respondents. Other suggestions included government or non-profit verification, transparency in energy costs, and annual reports. Evan Feeney, associate director of corporate engagement at Consumer Reports, emphasized the "significant trust gap" between the public and tech companies, advocating for enforceable commitments and independent verification to ensure data center energy costs are borne by the companies themselves.
Consumer Reports has launched a petition urging state leaders and utility regulators to mandate that large energy users like data centers pay their fair share. Concurrently, the House Energy and Commerce Committee is expected to vote on the "Ratepayer Protection Act," a legislative measure aimed at addressing these concerns.