Spanberger signs executive order to establish 'most aggressive' standards for data centers
Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed an executive order to implement what she termed the "most aggressive" data center accountability policies in the United States. The order aims to address public concerns regarding noise, sprawling development, and high energy costs, while focusing on increased transparency, environmental protection, energy cost responsibility, and clean energy. This action comes after significant public backlash and political debate over data center development in the state.
Governor Abigail Spanberger of Virginia announced and signed an executive order establishing what she termed the most comprehensive and aggressive data center accountability policy in the United States. This executive order is Virginia's response to months of rising public backlash against data centers, which have raised concerns about noise, sprawling development, and potential for higher energy costs.
The new policy framework is designed in five parts: increasing transparency by banning non-disclosure agreements for commercial projects and requiring public input; strengthening environmental protections; lowering energy costs by ensuring data centers bear the full cost of their energy infrastructure; bolstering the clean energy economy and grid reliability; and delivering better deals for Virginia workers.
State Senate Democrats, who previously contributed to a budget battle over data center concerns, expressed appreciation for the governor's efforts and committed to collaborative work. Senate Republican leader Ryan McDougal also welcomed the governor's focus on high power bills and data centers, emphasizing it should not be a partisan issue. Spanberger additionally announced an AI task force to study technology regulation.