US President Donald Trump says Microsoft will introduce “major changes” within the week so that rising energy use from its AI data centres does not raise household power costs. Trump posted that “big Technology Companies who build them must ‘pay their own way.’”
Trump wrote on Truth Social: “I never want Americans to pay higher Electricity bills because of Data Centers.” The statement comes as voters focus on living costs before the midterm elections, with energy prices now a central political concern.
Rising power costs linked to AI data centres
Earlier reports show power bills have already climbed in at least 13 US states due to growing demand from AI infrastructure. Average electricity prices increased about 6% year-on-year, while some areas, including Maine, saw jumps as steep as 36%.
| Measure | Value |
|---|---|
| States affected | 13+ |
| Average price rise | ~6% year-on-year |
| Peak regional increase | 36% (Maine) |
The administration has tried to ease household budgets on several fronts. Efforts include pressure to lower mortgage rates and reduce costs of prescription medicines such as Ozempic. Trump’s stance on AI data centres fits this wider message on limiting everyday expenses.
Microsoft AI data centres, community pushback and nuclear deal
Microsoft has already responded to concerns about the local impact of AI data centres. The company dropped a proposed facility in Caledonia, Wisconsin, after nearby residents opposed the project, reflecting anxiety about future bills and grid strain.
During a September town hall in Wisconsin, Microsoft president Brad Smith told attendees: “I just want you to know we are doing everything we can… so that you all don’t have to pay more for electricity because of our presence.” The remarks highlighted Microsoft’s need to reassure host communities.
The company has turned to nuclear power to support AI data centres and other operations. In 2024, Microsoft agreed a 20-year deal to buy power from the Three Mile Island plant in Pennsylvania. The Trump administration backed the plan with a $1 billion federal loan in November 2025.
The reactor due to restart is different from the unit involved in the 1979 accident at Three Mile Island. It is scheduled to begin operating again by 2027 and is expected to provide enough electricity for about 800,000 homes while also serving Microsoft’s energy needs.
Trump has suggested that more arrangements with other technology firms are coming. Meta, Amazon and Google have already made similar promises to cover AI data centres’ costs themselves, as consumer pressure over rising utility bills mounts across several American regions.
