The UK government's goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 may be jeopardized by new policies allowing AI data centres to build onsite power generation while awaiting grid connections. BBC research indicates that four planned "hyperscale" data centres are considering the use of gas-fired power, which could result in emissions exceeding those of major cities.
Toby Perkins, chair of the Environmental Audit Select Committee, expressed concern that increased reliance on natural gas is not a sustainable future and that the government should not permit any power generation method.
Data centres, essential for a wide range of digital services, are growing in scale to meet the demands of advanced artificial intelligence. This expansion places significant strain on the National Grid, which is already struggling to meet current demand. Ofgem, the energy regulator, reports that data centre developers are seeking connections totaling 72 gigawatts, far exceeding the country's peak demand of 45 gigawatts.
In response to these challenges, the government announced a British Data Centre Covenant, requiring operators to invest in local communities and infrastructure in exchange for priority grid connections. However, the chancellor also stated that developers would be permitted to generate their own power on-site if grid connections are unavailable.
BBC File on 4 Investigates found that four data centres are already exploring gas-fired power. These facilities, if operating at full capacity, could require 1.3 gigawatts of power and emit an estimated 4.1 million tonnes of carbon annually, potentially surpassing the combined emissions of Manchester, Liverpool, and Southampton.
Environmental campaigners highlight concerns beyond carbon emissions. Oliver Hayes of Global Action Plan noted that gas-fired power stations could lead to increased local air pollution, noise, and strain on water supplies for nearby communities. Specific projects under consideration include a 49.5-megawatt gas engine facility in Acre Slough, expected to operate for up to 10 years without a grid connection, and a proposed 200-megawatt gas power station at Wapsey's Wood in Buckinghamshire, which could run until 2040.
Other developments include a proposed 1-gigawatt data centre at Quest Park in Bedfordshire, with developers considering various energy solutions. In Cardiff, a developer is seeking permission for a temporary energy centre with 49.9-megawatt turbines as a potential interim solution.
Government officials maintain that the priority is connecting data centres to the grid to leverage the UK's decarbonizing power sector. They emphasize that any on-site generation would be strictly controlled, time-limited, and reserved for critical projects where grid solutions are unfeasible. A spokesperson stated that pausing data centre development would harm the economy and increase reliance on foreign infrastructure, and that the Data Centre Covenant aims to ensure responsible growth.