Massachusetts has implemented new regulations targeting data centers with peak power demands exceeding 25 megawatts. Under Governor Maura Healey's executive order, these facilities must either generate their own clean power, fund nearby clean energy projects, or pay into a ratepayer protection fund. The order aims to ensure that data centers meet 100% of their electricity needs through clean energy sources such as wind, solar, and hydro, strengthening the state's existing clean energy standards. The governor also urged local communities to avoid signing non-disclosure agreements related to data center projects. To allow time for regulatory adjustments, Massachusetts has paused applications for a recently introduced data center sales tax exemption. This move aligns Massachusetts with other states like Texas and New York, which have recently introduced measures to regulate data center growth amid rising public concerns about energy consumption and environmental impact. The tech industry has begun responding to these regulatory changes, with groups advocating for data center interests ahead of upcoming elections. Massachusetts' new policy reflects a broader trend of states balancing economic development with environmental sustainability in the data center sector.