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Gov. Healey's order requires local OK for data centers in Mass.
WCVB • • nation
Key Points:
- Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey issued an executive order requiring new data centers to obtain local community approval and adhere to energy, water, and engagement standards before seeking state permits.
- Data centers must enter into community benefits agreements without non-disclosure clauses and supply their own clean energy while protecting local water resources, per Healey's administration framework.
- The order also mandates data centers contribute to a Ratepayer Protection Fund to offset electricity costs for consumers if the companies do not fully cover them.
- The move comes amid political debate, with Healey emphasizing community consent and environmental responsibility, while her Republican opponent Mike Minogue argues the state cannot currently handle increased energy demand.
- Massachusetts joins other states like New York and Maine in grappling with data center regulation amid rising energy and environmental concerns linked to the growing infrastructure supporting AI and large-scale computing.
