Policy & Ethicsdata centersclean energymicrosoftregulation
Washington Advances Data Center Regulation Bill
8.2
In late February 2026 Microsoft testified against Washington's HB 2515, with senior director Lauren McDonald urging the Senate Ways & Means Committee to amend the bill. HB 2515, passed by the House, would require data centers to shield ratepayers, report energy and water use, forecast loads, and reach 80% clean power by 2030 and 100% by 2045; the Senate is now deliberating.
Key Points
- 1Highlights Microsoft opposition after Lauren McDonald testified against HB 2515 at late-February 2026 hearing
- 2Seeks to protect ratepayers and environment by mandating reporting, forecasting, and clean-energy targets through 2045
- 3Requires practitioners to plan for energy forecasting, reporting compliance, and potential siting constraints for new facilities
Scoring Rationale
Strong official testimony and concrete regulatory requirements drive high impact; scope limited to Washington state and pending Senate approval.
Sources
Public references used for this report.
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