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.
Related policies
- Climate ActionOct 9, 2026New Jersey Joins Multi-State Energy Cost Group
Governor Sherrill has joined a collaborative effort with other governors in the PJM region (a major electricity grid operator) to work together on decisions that affect energy prices and grid reliability. The group aims to give states a stronger voice in how the regional electricity system operates. This coordination is intended to help control costs and support economic growth across the region.
- Executive OrderJan 20, 2026Emergency Order to Build More Power Plants to Fix Electricity Supply Problems
New Jersey's governor declared an emergency situation to speed up building new power plants because the state doesn't have enough electricity to meet demand. This order removes some normal rules and timelines to make it faster to develop new sources of electricity. The goal is to make sure New Jersey has enough reliable power for residents and businesses.
- NJ LegislatureSep 10, 2026Clean Firm Energy Reliability Act
This bill asks New Jersey's utilities regulator (the Board of Public Utilities) to set up a new program to buy electricity from certain types of power plants in the state. The program is designed to help keep New Jersey's power grid reliable while using cleaner energy sources. Right now, the bill has just been introduced in the state legislature.
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This law modifies how New Jersey's renewable energy incentive programs work and requires electric utilities to process applications for certain solar projects more fairly. The changes aim to streamline how people and businesses can get solar systems connected to the power grid. This law took effect in September 2026.