Tom Steyer’s Climate Advocacy Comes Under Scrutiny

Democrat Tom Steyer has emphasized his commitment to climate change in his bid for California’s governorship. However, his recent change of heart regarding AI data centers might not sit well with some environmentalists who back his campaign.

Greenpeace evaluated candidates and awarded Steyer an “A” rating, making him one of just two candidates to achieve that recognition.

One of the key promises he made was to halt the construction of new data centers. These facilities, where AI and other companies host servers, have become increasingly controversial due to environmental concerns, as they consume significant resources and energy.

These data centers have attracted massive investment due to the AI surge, but they’ve also sparked political tension, especially among local residents unhappy with the high levels of water and electricity they require. Environmental activists have voiced strong opposition to these centers because of their environmental impact.

According to Greenpeace’s findings, Steyer’s team responded affirmatively to a question regarding support for a moratorium on new data centers until proper regulations are established that protect ratepayers and ensure reliance on renewable energy and sustainable water sources.

Steyer elaborated by stating that “no new data center should be built unless it comes at an out-of-pocket expense that won’t burden ratepayers.” He insists that these companies should not only bear the cost of maintaining the energy grid but also cover their entire energy consumption.

Yet, previously, he had told Politico that he did not see a need for such a moratorium, emphasizing a focus on keeping electricity prices stable for data centers and preventing the “theft” of local water resources.

A spokesperson for Steyer communicated to Politico that he is not advocating for suspensions of data centers, asserting that as governor, he would enforce necessary standards for these facilities. They emphasized that if major corporations were to increase California’s electricity demand, they should foot the bill while also lowering costs for other companies.

Greenpeace’s Amy More warned Steyer not to shift his stance on this issue, stating, “If he changes positions, we change his grade level.”

This isn’t the first instance where Steyer’s environmental record has been questioned. He has often been criticized by opponents for having made his wealth through hedge funds that invested in fossil fuel companies. Steyer maintains that he has distanced himself from that world to concentrate on combating climate change, reassuring voters of his commitment to fighting global warming.