Beril Canakci
06 November 2026•Update: 06 November 2026
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, announced Thursday that it would stop using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with public officials over future data center projects, as concerns grow in the US over the environmental and economic impact of artificial intelligence infrastructure.
The announcement came two days after US midterm elections in which opposition to data center development emerged as an issue in several states and local communities.
In a statement, OpenAI unveiled a set of commitments aimed at addressing concerns about the large facilities that house the computer servers needed to develop and operate AI systems.
Under its new National Community Compact, the company pledged to cover the full cost of electricity and related infrastructure at future data centers it owns and operates, rather than passing additional costs on to nearby households and businesses.
It also said it would publish information about electricity and water consumption, prepare water management plans and disclose construction plans and noise assessments.
OpenAI said it would no longer use non-disclosure agreements with public officials, except for limited protections involving security, trade secrets and commercially sensitive information.
The company also introduced a policy blueprint urging US lawmakers to establish broader rules requiring data center developers to disclose their environmental impact, cover infrastructure costs and involve local communities in planning decisions.
The commitments come amid growing scrutiny of the rapid expansion of AI data centers, which require substantial electricity to power servers and water in some cooling systems, raising concerns about utility bills, local resources and environmental effects.
