Microsoft says tech firms must 'prove' AI data centers benefit locals

CTO says company taking measured approach to infrastructure expansion Kevin Scott, Microsoft's chief technology officer, speaks during an interview on the sidelines of the Nikkei Forum Global Management Dialogue 2026 in Tokyo on Nov 11. (Photo by Satoko Kawasaki) TOKYO -- Technology companies building data centers that power artificial intelligencemust show their benefits to local communities rather than simply promise economic gains, Microsoft's technology chief told Nikkei Asia, as opposition to the projects intensifies.