Gov. Sherrill signs data center transparency bill, announces new guidance for N.J. municipalities
Governor Mikie Sherrill has signed legislation in New Jersey requiring data centers to report their energy and water usage. She also announced new statewide guidance to assist municipalities in negotiating community benefits agreements with data center developers. These actions complete the four components of her data center plan, focusing on transparency, energy costs, community benefits, and labor standards.
Governor Mikie Sherrill of New Jersey has enacted legislation mandating that data centers operating within the state disclose their energy and water consumption. Concurrently, the Governor's office released new statewide guidance aimed at empowering local municipalities to effectively negotiate community benefits agreements with data center developers.
These actions represent the culmination of Governor Sherrill's comprehensive data center plan, which was initially unveiled in May. The plan, now fully implemented, addresses key areas including energy costs, operational transparency, the establishment of community benefits, and the adherence to labor standards amidst the growing expansion of data center infrastructure across New Jersey.
Governor Sherrill emphasized her commitment to affordability and accountability, stating that the measures put "power back in the hands of communities" and ensure data centers contribute their fair share, operate transparently, invest meaningfully in local communities, and create union jobs.