Massachusetts Tightens Data Center Power Rules
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has issued Executive Order No. 658 establishing new requirements for data centers with peak electricity demand above 25 MW, with significant implications for power systems and grid infrastructure development.
Under the order, projects above the 25 MW threshold must demonstrate compliance with state requirements covering air quality, water use and community engagement, while also submitting a community benefits agreement. Regulators must ensure that other electricity ratepayers do not bear the cost of grid upgrades or infrastructure required to serve large data-center loads.
The order also directs development of large-load electricity rate schedules and measures to remove speculative projects from interconnection queues.
Massachusetts will further require qualifying data centers to procure sufficient incremental clean electricity generation to cover annual consumption. Projects that fall short will face an alternative compliance payment, with funds directed to a Ratepayer Protection Fund.
The order also introduces requirements covering water resources, emissions, annual reporting and responsible labor practices.
Source: mass.gov
