Hyperscalers allow more scrutiny of controversial data center plans

Hyperscalers are becoming increasingly concerned about public reactions to their plans for constructing data centers, and are seeking ways to address some of the conflicts. Last month, Amazon introduced its Data Center Commitment, which includes disclosing more details about energy and water usage, and even proposing a moratorium asking government officials to sign non-disclosure agreements pertaining to their planning applications.

Amazon is not alone in its efforts. Earlier this week, Meta announced it is reviewing its use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) following criticism for its secretive approach to proposing Hyperion, a Louisiana data center. Microsoft was an early mover in this regard, announcing in March that it would "cease to use NDAs as a tool in its data center site selection and development." Google has since followed suit.

The hyperscalers' actions are likely to be viewed as a response to the growing protests against data center construction. Delays in major projects have already been observed, and it is probable that we will see more campaigns against data centers as their electricity consumption and water usage continue to increase. Initiatives to reduce water usage are being developed in response to these concerns.

It remains to be seen whether the hyperscalers' increased transparency and efforts to utilize renewable energy sources will be enough to quell the anger against their new data center plans. The backlash against them may prove to be too intense. This report originally appeared on Network World.