Amazon and others are done keeping data center deals secret. Is it enough to build trust?
News Source
β’Fri, 09 Oct 2026 16:56:42 +0000
π° What Happened
Amazon says it will stop using secrecy agreements when making data centre deals with local governments. Microsoft made a similar change this year.
These agreements, called NDAs, kept many details hidden from the public. Secrecy has caused anger in many communities. Amazon hopes the change will help it win more local support.
π The Backstory
People worry about the effects of AI data centres. They use lots of power and water.
More than a hundred towns and cities have pushed back, from New York to San Francisco. Some have passed or proposed bans on new data centres. Some startups also want people to let AI agents into their files and payment cards.
π― Why It Matters
Open deals let residents know what is planned in their area. It helps communities have a say in projects that affect their power and water.
Amazon says it will stop using secrecy agreements when making data centre deals with local governments. Microsoft made a similar change this year.
These agreements, called NDAs, kept many details hidden from the public. Secrecy has caused anger in many communities. Amazon hopes the change will help it win more local support.
People worry about the effects of AI data centres. They use lots of power and water.
More than a hundred towns and cities have pushed back, from New York to San Francisco. Some have passed or proposed bans on new data centres. Some startups also want people to let AI agents into their files and payment cards.
Open deals let residents know what is planned in their area. It helps communities have a say in projects that affect their power and water.