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Barre Today
By the People, for the People
Opinion: Don't Let Vermont Miss the AI Boom
Major tech companies are investing billions in data centers, and Vermont could turn that demand into lower costs and economic growth.
Published on Mar. 4, 2026
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In an opinion piece, Jim Willard argues that Vermont should seize the opportunity presented by major tech companies seeking locations for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers. Willard suggests Vermont could negotiate community benefit agreements with companies like Google, Microsoft, or Amazon to address the state's problems, such as lack of affordable housing and stable energy costs, in exchange for lower electricity prices and economic growth.
Why it matters
Vermont is struggling with systemic issues like affordable housing and retaining young families, and Willard believes the state could leverage the demand for AI data centers to address these problems through smart negotiation with tech giants. If Vermont misses this opportunity, other states will capitalize on the AI boom, leaving the state behind.
The details
Willard points to recent announcements of major data center expansions by companies like Amazon and Google, noting that these tech giants are desperate to find suitable locations due to resistance in many states. He suggests Vermont could attract these companies by offering lower electricity prices for residential consumers, achieved by spreading fixed costs over a broader customer base, as well as providing affordable housing for data center employees. In return, Vermont could negotiate community benefit agreements that include commitments to infrastructure improvements, workforce investment, and other local priorities.
- Amazon recently announced a $12 billion data-center expansion.
- Google has signed long-term power deals to support new facilities.
The players
Jim Willard
A resident of Barre, Vermont, who is advocating for the state to seize the opportunity presented by the demand for AI data centers.
A major tech company that is seeking locations for new artificial intelligence data centers.
Microsoft
A major tech company that is seeking locations for new artificial intelligence data centers.
Amazon
A major tech company that is seeking locations for new artificial intelligence data centers and has recently announced a $12 billion data-center expansion.
IBM
A tech company that transformed much of Vermont's economy for the better when it built facilities in the state decades ago.
What they’re saying
“Where many people see risk, they should seek opportunity instead.”
— Jim Willard (vtdigger.org)
“With clear conditions and smart negotiation, Vermont could require that new facilities help strengthen our electric grid and expand housing supply rather than strain them.”
— Jim Willard (vtdigger.org)
The takeaway
Vermont has the opportunity to leverage the demand for AI data centers to address its systemic issues, such as affordable housing and energy costs, through smart negotiation with tech giants. If the state fails to seize this chance, other states will capitalize on the AI boom, leaving Vermont behind.
