Story perspectives

Data Center Rule Expires; 70% Public Opposes, Security Gaps

6/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. government will let the Data Center Enhancement Act rule expire on September 30, 2026, with OMB Memorandum M-25-03 also sunset.
May Gallup poll shows over 70 percent of Americans oppose data-center construction, while the July 23, 2025 executive order speeds permitting for projects over 100 megawatts or exceeding $500 million.
Observers warn regulatory vacuum may cause security gaps as Electric Power Research Institute projects data centers will use at least 9 percent of U.S. electricity by 2030.

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Story summary

U.S. government will let the Data Center Enhancement Act rule expire on September 30, 2026, with OMB Memorandum M-25-03 also sunset.
May Gallup poll shows over 70 percent of Americans oppose data-center construction, while the July 23, 2025 executive order speeds permitting for projects over 100 megawatts or exceeding $500 million.
Observers warn regulatory vacuum may cause security gaps as Electric Power Research Institute projects data centers will use at least 9 percent of U.S. electricity by 2030.