OpenAI makes new data center commitments, AI policy recommendations

OpenAI Group PBC today made a set of commitments designed to ensure that its data centers benefit the communities where they’re built. It also proposed that lawmakers make some of the commitments mandatory for artificial intelligence companies. The move comes two days after Democrats won both the House and the Senate on a campaign backing data center construction curbs. Additionally, voters approved dozens of ballot measures designed to scale back or limit AI infrastructure projects. OpenAI today reiterated a commitment it made in January to fully pay for the electricity and grid upgrades that its data centers require. That covers items such as the construction of new overhead power lines. Additionally, the company pledged to provide “financial assurances” that will protect other grid users from potential project cancellations and delays.