Spain proposes 10MW threshold for data-center rules

Spain has eased its proposed rules for data centers, raising the threshold for coverage from more than 1 megawatt to more than 10 megawatts and giving operators more time to meet renewable-energy requirements. Under the revised proposal, new renewable capacity must be installed within 36 months before a facility opens, rather than 18 months, and solar power is not subject to a time limit. The requirement for renewables to supply at least 80% of a covered data center’s electricity each hour remains, but operators may receive up to five years to reach it under certain conditions. The changes follow objections from industry and competition officials concerned that strict rules could deter investment; the government’s final draft also retains the option to disconnect data centers without compensation if grid stability is threatened. Spain is attracting major data-center investment, with projects seeking grid connections exceeding 10 gigawatts.