Green Worcester panel forms subcommittee to study state data‑center framework and executive order
Members debated a new state framework and an executive order tied to permitting of large data centers, with committee member Ted Connor urging stronger local thresholds and transparency; the advisory committee voted to form a three‑person subcommittee to study next steps.
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Ted Connor summarized a state framework released in June and an executive order issued Sept. 8 that directs state agencies to apply new guidance to data centers above a 25‑megawatt peak demand threshold. Connor told the Green Worcester Advisory Committee the framework lists eight priorities — green energy procurement, avoiding transmission and distribution stress, limiting diesel backup, water‑sensitive cooling, workforce development, community engagement, congruence with local economic goals, and project transparency — and urged local planning to start now.
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