Scottish Green politician and former co-leader
The Scottish government has introduced environmental impact assessments for data centres above 50MW and will pause decisions until guidance is published, as Holyrood weighs a national strategy to manage a rapid boom in hyperscale AI facilities.
Scottish plans for a 1GW Chapelcross AI data centre face opposition and calls for public consultation. Campaigners warn of grid strain and higher bills, while officials emphasise community engagement and national guidance. The project aims to redevelop a former nuclear site but faces scrutiny over land use and greenhouse gas impacts.