The future of Scotland's digital landscape is under scrutiny as the country teeters on the brink of a datacentre freeze. The Scottish National Party (SNP) has submitted a proposal for a moratorium on new projects, which could have far-reaching implications for the UK's national artificial intelligence (AI) ambitions. The motion, passed by the SNP's national council last Sunday, is now with the Scottish government for consideration.
The proposed freeze would apply to all datacentre developments without planning permission, although exact details will be determined by the Scottish government. Those pushing for a halt claim that existing plans in Scotland represent "overdevelopment" and are too intrusive for local communities, with Lesley Backhouse attending the national council meeting highlighting these concerns.
Against this backdrop, questions surround large-scale datacentre projects touted as key components of the UK's AI strategy. A massive hub planned for Lanarkshire has faced criticism over land seizure and unfulfilled job promises. Some describe these investments as "phantom" – with doubts raised about claimed jobs and investment figures.
Even within Scotland, there is recognition that datacentres are necessary, but proponents stress the need for a thorough government assessment of capacity and resource requirements. The SNP's resolution highlights concerns over 24 proposed hyperscale datacentre projects potentially overwhelming Scotland's renewable energy supply – with combined power usage exceeding national demand by over one and half times.
The UK's AI investment strategy is under fire, with critics pointing to a lack of planning for achieving national sovereignty in key technologies. Chi Onwurah, Chair of the Commons Science and Technology Select Committee, describes it as "very opportunistic" – warning against being cut off from advancements at foreign governments' discretion.