Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of energy costs on the viability of the data centre industry.

The Government recognises that UK electricity prices and grid connection delays are barriers to investment. The only sustainable way to reduce electricity bills is by reducing the UK’s exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets, which is why industrial energy affordability is aligned with the Clean Power 2030 mission.

For data centres, the Department for Business and Trade will consult on options to support electricity costs for projects in AI Growth Zones that reduce overall system costs, including in Scotland, Cumbria and the North East. For large projects, this could reduce operating costs and help to cut bills for consumers.