A recent Harvard Law School study raised red flags about the growing energy demands of data centers and how those demands could unfairly shift infrastructure costs onto residential ratepayers. The report highlights how some developers pursue speculative projects—securing “will-serve” letters without actual commitments—leaving utilities to foot the bill for transmission and substation upgrades. These costs can end up being passed on to everyday customers through opaque rate structures or special contracts, straining public trust and grid reliability.
Compass Datacenters takes a fundamentally different approach. We operate on a co-serve model, collaborating directly with utilities from day one to ensure shared investment and transparent planning. Rather than leaving grid upgrades to the public, we contribute substantial private capital—like the $20 million in right-of-way and $52.5 million in substation infrastructure we’ve funded in North Texas alone. Our projects are real, customer-backed, and developed with utility alignment, not speculation.
This model sets Compass apart. We’re not just data center developers—we’re infrastructure partners. Our goal is to accelerate grid readiness without placing that burden on residential ratepayers. While the Harvard study rightly calls attention to problematic industry practices, Compass is proof that responsible, utility-aligned development is not only possible—it’s already happening.
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