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President Donald Trump criticized data centers for their energy consumption in a Truth Social post, stating that Microsoft must make significant changes to ensure Americans do not pay higher electricity bills due to AI development. Trump emphasized that tech companies should 'pay their own way'.

Microsoft responded by announcing a plan for a 'Community-First AI Infrastructure' initiative, committing to cover its own electricity costs and minimize water usage. The plan aims to prevent the burden of increased utility costs on residential customers.

The growing demand for electricity from data centers has raised concerns about rising emissions, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics reporting a 6.7% increase in electricity costs over the past year. Analysts suggest this issue will continue to challenge both tech companies and the Trump administration as they navigate energy consumption and infrastructure demands.