Microsoft has confirmed that it will no longer move forward with its immediate plans to build data centers in Licking County. It had previously planned to invest $1 billion toward three data center campuses in New Albany, Heath, and Hebron. Microsoft will continue to own the land and plans to ensure that two of the three sites can be used for farming. Additionally, Microsoft will carry out development agreements to fund roadway and utility project upgrades.

Microsoft’s decision to pull out of these projects comes amid a controversial proposed data center tariff from AEP Ohio that is pending at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. OMA Energy Group has intervened to oppose this discriminatory tariff as it is discriminatory and anti-competitive. 4/8/2025