OpenAI announces changes how it handles data centres amid outcry after US midterms

OpenAI, the company behind the popular ChatGPT service, has announced new measures to address concerns over the impact of its data centers on local communities following the US midterm elections. The company, in a new framework dubbed the National Community Compact, has pledged to eliminate non-disclosure agreements in data center negotiations, ensuring residents do not bear the costs of powering these projects.

OpenAI will also provide clear information about potential community impacts, including noise, water, and energy use. Furthermore, the company plans to reduce power usage during peak times, send excess electricity back to the grid, and set local hiring goals where feasible. OpenAI aims to publicly report its progress towards these commitments.

The company's chief global affairs officer, Chris Lehane, explained that the announcement was planned prior to the election returns and built upon measures already discussed in projects in Georgia and other states. Lehane noted that many of these measures were inspired by conversations with residents and officials in states like Georgia, Ohio, and Texas, which have been particularly impacted by the globalisation of data center projects.

The announcement comes amid a surge of opposition to data center development across the US. In the second quarter of 2026 alone, at least 45 AI data center projects valued at $68 billion were disrupted due to local opposition. This political backlash has led to at least two potential Democratic gubernatorial victories in Texas, Georgia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, which could result in stricter local scrutiny and pushback for AI data center expansions.

OpenAI has been engaging with candidates, both incumbents and challengers, to discuss how to make data centers beneficial to residents while respecting their concerns. The company emphasized the importance of community input in the decision-making process, aligning with democratic principles.