Former President Trump asserts Microsoft will implement changes by early January to prevent consumers from bearing rising energy costs tied to its AI infrastructure expansion, citing potential utility rate impacts. The claim, made via social media, underscores growing scrutiny over tech-driven electricity demand.
- Trump claims Microsoft (MSFT) will implement changes starting January 13, 2026, to prevent consumer energy cost increases.
- Microsoft’s AI data centers are projected to increase U.S. power consumption by 24% by 2027.
- NextEra Energy (NEE) forecasts a 6.3% residential rate rise by Q3 2026 due to tech sector demand.
- ExxonMobil (XOM) and NEE are under scrutiny for potential rate adjustments amid rising industrial energy use.
- NVIDIA (NVDA) shares rose 2.1% on market speculation of reduced regulatory risk for AI infrastructure.
President Donald Trump announced on January 13, 2026, that Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) would introduce structural changes beginning that week to ensure consumers are not financially burdened by increased energy usage from AI-related data center operations. The claim, posted on a social media platform, did not specify technical details but signaled a policy focus on energy cost pass-throughs to households and businesses. Microsoft’s AI infrastructure buildout has led to a projected 24% rise in power consumption across its U.S. data centers by 2027, according to internal modeling shared with utility regulators. This surge has prompted utilities such as NextEra Energy (NEE) and ExxonMobil (XOM) to revise rate structures, with NEE anticipating a 6.3% average increase in residential electricity rates by Q3 2026. The pressure is especially acute in Texas and California, where data center energy demand has grown 31% since 2023. Analysts note that if Microsoft proceeds with internal cost absorption strategies—such as expanding on-site renewable generation or renegotiating power purchase agreements—this could reduce near-term rate hikes. However, without official statements from Microsoft or regulatory filings, the scope and financial feasibility of such changes remain speculative. The claim has already influenced investor sentiment, with NVDA shares rising 2.1% on speculation of reduced regulatory risk in the AI infrastructure sector. The announcement has drawn attention from energy regulators and consumer advocacy groups, who are evaluating whether tech firms should bear a greater share of grid modernization costs. The outcome could affect capital allocation for utilities and long-term energy contracts, particularly in regions with tight grid capacity.