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ARTICLE · 31 JULY 2025

Data Centers And Permitting Reform: Is Artificial Intelligence Up To The Challenge?

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On July 23, 2025, the White House released its long-anticipated America's AI Action Plan, as well as a trio of executive orders (EOs) aimed at securing U.S. global dominance on artificial intelligence (AI).

United StatesEnergy and Natural Resources
Emily Orler
Emily Orler
Travis Annatoyn
Travis Annatoyn
Allison B. Rumsey
Allison B. Rumsey
Ethan Shenkman
Ethan Shenkman
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On July 23, 2025, the White House released its long-anticipated America's AI Action Plan, as well as a trio of executive orders (EOs) aimed at securing U.S. global dominance on artificial intelligence (AI). The AI Action Plan and the "Accelerating Federal Permitting of Data Center Infrastructure" Executive Order deliver a stark message: the federal permitting system is an impediment that must be addressed. According to the AI Action Plan, "America's environmental permitting system and other regulations make it almost impossible to build this infrastructure in the United States with the speed that is required."

It's no secret that the federal permitting system is in need of reform. For decades, energy infrastructure developers — who must now meet data centers' massive energy demands — have advocated for such reform. But, new players have entered the arena: tech companies. Will these new players and the resources, innovation, and urgency they bring with them finally

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