Overview
- Microsoft will ask utilities and state commissions to set data‑center rates high enough to cover its electricity use and required grid upgrades, with early coordination on capacity.
- The company committed to minimize water use, replenish more than it withdraws, and publish region‑level water‑use and replenishment data for its U.S. data centers.
- Microsoft said it will create local jobs, pay its full share of property taxes without seeking abatements, and fund AI training for schools, libraries and small businesses.
- President Trump said Microsoft is “first up” in a broader push to prevent consumers from paying higher utility bills, with additional corporate commitments expected in the coming weeks.
- The move comes as data‑center demand accelerates and some regions report sharp bill increases, with states considering new rate structures and Microsoft citing Wisconsin arrangements designed to shield residential ratepayers.