Microsoft president Brad Smith says it's the company's 'fundamental responsibility' to manage data center growth and its impact on residents' rising utility costs.
The news about Microsoft's pledge to Quincy, Washington, left me feeling underwhelmed. The fact is, the tech giant has been operating its Columbia Data Center there for two decades now, and in that time it's managed to secure a reliable source of hydropower - so much so that seven other companies have followed suit by setting up their own data centers in the area.
The Pledge
Microsoft president Brad Smith told reporters about the pledge it makes to the communities where it builds and operates data centers. The company commits to replenishing or giving back more water than it uses, ensuring that its usage doesn't increase neighbors' utility rates, and paying for its own electricity.
Microsofts Data Center Pledge Brings Economic Boom to Quincy
While some residents have been asked to vacate their homes to accommodate the roughly two dozen data centers that have entered the area over the past two decades, the presence of the data center has created 'a kind of boom' for the area, according to Mayor Paul Worley. The company will put the community first, not do anything that will increase electricity rates of neighbors.
Microsoft employs nearly 9% of Quincys population
According to Microsoft, the company employs roughly 700 people, or almost 9% of Quincy's population. However, many of these jobs are temporary construction positions. Additionally, electricity rates per kilowatt-hour have risen by roughly 55% over the past 20 years, according to the Grant County public utility.
Microsoft President Brad Smith Defends Data Center Expansion Plans
Microsoft president Brad Smith has a clear message for Americans who say they don't want data centers in their backyards. He believes it is the company's 'fundamental responsibility' to manage the industry's growth and its impact on residents' rising utility costs. The industry needs to better inform opponents of data centers about the essential services the facilities enable, such as creating local jobs and providing hydropower.
What's Next?
The question remains: what will happen next in Quincy, Washington? Will Microsoft's pledge be enough to alleviate concerns about data center growth and its impact on residents' utility costs? Only time will tell. According to a reports exit poll, more than half of voters said artificial intelligence and data centers were a significant factor in their votes during the midterm elections.
Source: Google News
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