Connect | Virginia // Panel: The regulatory arena - Navigating fragmented power development policies

The regulatory environment for data centers and power generation is highly fragmented, triggering bottlenecks in a period where speed is essential. Permitting timelines and market access vary by state meaning a project can collapse based on geography. Players need clearer guidance on risk sharing and flexible power utilities; otherwise, utilities and developers are left exposed. Meanwhile, policymakers are responding with punitive measures, resulting in further project delays. This panel will define what the regulatory framework should look like to protect ratepayers and keep up with demand. 

• Standardizing performance expectations across federal, state, operator, and utility stakeholders
• How can regulators better define risk boundaries? And should utilities and data centers be compensated for sharing that risk?
• Can unregulated states like Texas provide more competitive electricity costs?
• Are “use it, or lose it” policies a viable solution to mitigate power hoarding?