Data centre concerns overblown, Scottish MSPs told

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 14:20 · Archive

Technology sector representatives told Scotland's parliament that claims data centres will raise household energy bills are false.

Representatives of the technology sector told Holyrood's Climate Action Committee on Thursday that claims data centres will raise household energy bills are 'misinformation'. Craig Melson, associate director of technology trade body techUK, said such concerns have been overblown and compared the situation to other infrastructure projects.

Scotland has overabundant energy from renewable sources, which are paid billions each year to be turned off, the committee heard. Mr Melson said Scotland's cooler climate could make it a natural home for data centres, which produce substantial heat. Planning applications are under way for a number of hyperscale data centres across the country as artificial intelligence grows.

Concerns have been raised about their energy and water usage, as well as the impact on the environment and local communities. Mr Melson said it is in the interest of data centre owners to keep water and energy usage low, and that the industry has 'struggled' with increasing concern from councils and residents.

How it is being reported

• Data centre ‘misinformation’ has overblown concerns, MSPs toldHolyrood’s Climate Action Committee was also told that Scotland’s cooler climate could make it a natural home for the facilities.Evening Standard · 5 Nov, 13:49
• Data centre ‘misinformation’ has overblown concerns, MSPs toldHolyrood’s Climate Action Committee was also told that Scotland’s cooler climate could make it a natural home for the facilities.Independent Business · 5 Nov, 13:49

In this story: Holyrood · Scotland · Craig Melson · techUK

This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log