Encouraging Data Centers in the Northeast to Use Clean Energy
Official: SR 18 — Urges states in PJM Interconnection region to require data centers to obtain electricity from new zero- or low-emission sources of energy.
Reading: The resolution urges other states in the PJM region to adopt data-center clean-energy procurement requirements, which aligns with and reinforces existing clean-energy policy directions but creates no new binding obligation or program in New Jersey itself.
This resolution encourages neighboring states to adopt similar clean energy requirements for their data centers.
In clear language
New Jersey is asking states in the PJM Interconnection region (which includes New Jersey and neighboring states) to require data centers to use electricity from clean or renewable energy sources instead of traditional power plants. Data centers are large facilities that store and process data for internet services, and they currently use significant amounts of electricity. This resolution encourages neighboring states to adopt similar clean energy requirements for their data centers.
How does this affect you?
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Who does this affect?
- Data center companies operating in the PJM region (New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware, and Maryland)
- Electricity users whose data is stored at these facilities
- Residents in states within the PJM Interconnection region
- Energy companies that supply power to data centers
What can you do?
- Contact your state representatives to support clean energy requirements for data centers in your region
- Learn which data center companies operate near you and advocate for their use of renewable energy sources
Timeline
- 2026-03-23: Filed with Secretary of State
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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