Gov. Spanberger unveils accountability framework for data centers, launches AI taskforce - WSET

Gov. Spanberger unveils accountability framework for data centers, launches AI taskforce

RICHMOND, Va. (WSET) — Gov. Abigail Spanberger on Friday unveiled what she said is the most comprehensive and aggressive data center accountability effort in the country.

Spanberger said the Data Center Accountability Framework will give communities transparent information and data center approval, protect Virginians from higher energy bills and enforce the strongest environmental standards for data centers in the nation.

“The policies put forth in this framework are the highest standards in America, and they're organized around 5 core requirements increasing transparency, strengthening environmental protections, lowering energy costs, bolstering our clean energy economy, and delivering a better deal for Virginia workers,” Spanberger said.

During a news conference Friday morning, Spanberger signed an executive order to implement core parts of the framework and to establish a new AI task force to address growing concerns with artificial intelligence.

The governor’s framework calls for banning non-disclosure agreements for commercial data center projects, eliminates by right approval and requires local approval of any data center using more than 25 megawatts of power.

The framework would also provide communities with tools to negotiate stronger agreements, ends state subsidies for data centers in Virginia’s site development programs and removes future large data centers from Virginia’s fast-track permitting process

Spanberger said the framework also includes provisions to lower energy costs, require data centers to pay their fair share of energy costs and invest in clean energy to limit the use of natural gas generators.

While much of the framework will require legislation for the 2027 General Assembly session, the order signed on Friday will implement the following directives immediately:

- Ban executive branch agencies, departments, boards, commissions, authorities, and any other employees under the Governor’s supervision from entering into or requiring non-disclosure agreements for data center projects

- Create an initial Data Center Planning and Community Engagement Toolkit for local governments and communities to help localities get a better deal

- Expedite the development of data center noise regulations

- Direct a thorough review of diesel and other backup-generation operations associated with data centers

- Work to direct data center investments in local energy projects that improve energy affordability for Virginians and strengthen Virginia’s grid

- Develop best practices for prioritizing the creation of quality jobs and advancing local workforce opportunities

Virginia’s Artificial Intelligence Task Force will focus on addressing risks posed by the rapid development of artificial intelligence, including workforce displacement, data privacy, and cybersecurity.