From Startup Fortune · · 1m 10s
Protesters break into Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre site
Over 100 protesters storm Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre construction site amid Europe's AI backlash.
In brief
Over 100 protesters storm Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre construction site amid Europe's AI backlash. Protesters occupied Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre site on November 6, demanding an immediate moratorium on large European data centres. Originally reported by Startup Fortune.
Protesters storm Microsoft site
Over 100 protesters cut their way into Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre construction site on Friday, November 6.
“Protesters break into Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre site as Europe's AI backlash spreads”
Police respond to occupation
Police escorted demonstrators off the site, with at least one arrest and seized climbing gear.
“Dutch police said 150 to 200 people were detained on suspicion of trespassing”
Coordinated European protests
Stop Dirty Data Centres coalition organized actions in 15 countries with 2,000 marchers in Dublin and 1,300 in Helsinki.
“A coalition called Stop Dirty Data Centres, which says it spans more than 100 groups across Europe”
Geef Tegengas occupation
Dutch group Geef Tegengas has taken the site twice since June, with 400 protesters reported.
“The occupation was organised by Geef Tegengas, a Dutch group that has now taken the site twice since June”
Microsoft's response
Microsoft stated it respects protest rights but does not condone unlawful actions or safety risks.
“We understand that people feel strongly about the project, and we respect their right to express those views peacefully”
Investment impact
STL Partners estimated public opposition stalled $42 billion in European data centre investment since October.
“STL Partners estimated, in research cited by CNBC in October, that public opposition has stalled or cancelled about $42 billion of data centre investment in Europe”
Government reactions
Denmark passed emergency law to delay data centre applications, Spain proposed 80% renewable electricity for operators.
“Denmark passed an emergency law that could push data centre applications to the back of the grid-connection queue”
The short version
Protesters occupied Microsoft's Amsterdam data centre site on November 6, demanding an immediate moratorium on large European data centres.
