Spanberger's data center plan on collision course with her party's green energy push, critics warn
Virginia Gov.Abigail Spanberger's data center plan is facing criticism that one of its key provisions may work against itself: Limits on on-site natural gas generation could make it harder, not easier, for large data centers to support Virginia's already-stressed electric grid.The stakes are high because Virginia is already struggling to keep up with rapidly growing data-center electricity demand, especially in Northern Virginia, where demand is outpacing the expansion of transmission lines and substations.
Restricting on-site natural gas generation could make it harder for large data centers to add dependable power at a time when the state is trying to stabilize the grid while also shifting toward cleaner energy sources."Everyone recognizes the need for changes in how Virginia engages with data centers.But the Governor’s proposal is internally contradictory and raises serious questions about whether it can actually work," Virginia House Minority Leader Terry Kilgore told Fox News Digital.Spanberger’s Data Center Accountability Framework calls for data centers to help stabilize the electric grid while limiting the amount of electricity they can generate from on-site natural gas.WHO PAYS FOR US POWER BOOM? BLUE, RED STATES OFFER STARKLY DIFFERENT WAYS TO LOWER UTILITY BILLS AMID AI SURGEAbigail Spanberger takes the oath for governor of Virginia during inaugural activities at the Capitol in Richmond, Va., on Saturday, Jan.
17, 2026.(Stephanie Scarbrough/AP)Kilgore, R-Gate City, noted that the plan states data centers should source their "own clean power" while at the same time seeking to "limit the amount of electricity data centers can generate from … natural gas."The plan also calls for accelerated clean energy development and prioritizes grid access for data centers that invest in "clean energy" or "further limit on-site natural gas generation.""And if they fail to meet the governor’s preferred energy standards, they could face higher taxes," Kilgore sai...