OpenAI Commits to Transparency, Drops NDAs for Data Center Projects

Following recent midterm elections where voters strongly opposed data center expansion, OpenAI has announced new community commitments for its data center projects, including a pledge to refrain from using non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with public officials.

Data center developments have faced significant scrutiny for utilizing NDAs to conceal negotiations between developers and local authorities. OpenAI stated that it will now limit confidentiality agreements to only narrow protections for legitimate security concerns, trade secrets, or proprietary, competitively sensitive data. This move follows Amazon’s announcement in October to cease using NDAs with government agencies involved in its data center initiatives.

Among OpenAI’s additional commitments is a promise to cover the “full cost” of electricity consumption and the necessary infrastructure to support its operations. The company plans to foster local opportunities by publishing expected job creation figures and reporting on hiring progress. Furthermore, every future “compute campus”—the company’s term for data centers it owns and operates—will feature a “local compact” outlining these commitments and reflecting local priorities.

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