Tech companies and related industry groups help secure changes to proposed clean-energy rules affecting gas-powered data centres, according to reports from multiple outlets. A corporate climate watchdog that reviews and updates standards for climate-related corporate claims drops a stricter proposal tied to how companies can support “clean” energy assertions. The change follows significant lobbying efforts by technology firms, which sought adjustments to regulatory requirements, particularly those that would have tightened conditions around the use or recognition of clean energy certificates.
While the watchdog removes the stricter element of the proposal, it still leaves in place a regulatory framework that governs aspects of how firms describe climate performance and energy sourcing. The reporting describes the issue as part of an ongoing debate over the credibility of corporate net zero and clean energy claims, especially where electricity generation or supply involves gas-fired generation alongside offsetting mechanisms such as certificates.
Overall, the sources agree that the watchdog’s decision reflects pressure from industry stakeholders and results in a less stringent requirement than originally proposed.
