Story perspectives

Tech Lobbying Leads EU to Hide Datacentre Impact Data

4/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

Microsoft and other US tech companies influenced the European Union to conceal the environmental impact of datacentres.
The European Commission added a confidentiality clause to regulations that prevents public access to individual datacentre metrics.
Industry lobbying drove the move.
Experts say the move violates EU transparency rules and the Aarhus Convention.
Only 36% of datacentres comply with existing reporting requirements, raising concerns about hidden environmental impacts.

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Story summary

Microsoft and other US tech companies influenced the European Union to conceal the environmental impact of datacentres.
The European Commission added a confidentiality clause to regulations that prevents public access to individual datacentre metrics.
Industry lobbying drove the move.
Experts say the move violates EU transparency rules and the Aarhus Convention.
Only 36% of datacentres comply with existing reporting requirements, raising concerns about hidden environmental impacts.