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Government emails warn AI data centres could trigger blackouts and drive up bills
Emails between senior Scottish Government officials warn that proposed AI data centres could strain local electricity and water supplies, raise bills and leave nearby communities facing unreliable power. The disclosures, released under freedom of information laws, add to concerns raised by campaigners about the impact of the projects and whether communities will benefit from hosting them.
One official warned that Scotland already faces growing water shortages, with some areas experiencing shortages as early as April last year, and described data centres as “water hungry”. There are 24 planning applications; critics say building all the proposed centres could require 50 per cent more energy than Scotland currently produces. First Minister John Swinney has rejected calls for a moratorium, while the Scottish Government says it plans to publish new data centre planning guidance before the end of the year.
In short
- Officials warn data centres could strain local power and water supplies.
- Scotland has 24 data centre planning applications.
- Critics say the projects could need 50 per cent more energy than Scotland produces.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
AI data centres could bring investment, skilled jobs and infrastructure that supports research and digital services, while strengthening Scotland’s role in a growing industry. Supporters of allowing proposals to proceed may argue that impacts vary by site and can be managed through planning rules, grid investment and efficient use of water, so a blanket moratorium would forgo potential benefits before projects are assessed individually.
The case against
The scale of the proposals could place added pressure on electricity and water supplies that are already strained, risking higher bills or less reliable services for local residents while the benefits flow elsewhere. Critics may argue that these risks, alongside uncertainty about cumulative demand, justify pausing approvals until the government has assessed capacity and set clear safeguards for communities.
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