OpenAI issues new data center policies after midterm elections - ABC News
OpenAI announced new policies for its data center projects, including commitments to pay for electricity and infrastructure, develop water plans, limit nondisclosure agreements with public officials and establish community partnerships. The announcement followed Democratic candidates' criticism of data centers, including opposition to a joint OpenAI-Oracle project in Saline, Michigan, over power and water concerns.
OpenAI announced commitments intended to address community concerns about its expanding data center footprint, including paying for electricity and related infrastructure, creating a water plan for every site and forming local compacts with host communities. The company also said it would largely end nondisclosure agreements with public officials and invest in workforce training and local services.
The policy shift followed Democratic gains in the midterm elections and widespread campaign criticism of data centers' effects on water supplies, electricity demand and household utility bills. A joint OpenAI-Oracle project in Saline, Michigan, has faced local backlash over its potential impact on the power grid and water resources.
Texas Governor-elect Gina Hinojosa made opposition to new data center construction a central campaign issue and said she supports a moratorium, tighter water and power regulations and an end to tax incentives. OpenAI urged policymakers to establish clear rules for the industry while arguing that new computing infrastructure is important to U.S. competitiveness.