Spain data center regulations may divert investment to Portugal

Spain has introduced a new regulatory framework for data centers that imposes strict sustainability and renewable energy requirements. The proposal, which underwent public consultation until September 10, mandates that at least 80% of the electricity consumed by a data center must be covered by renewable production contracted for that specific hour. Additionally, the regulation requires that the renewable capacity be recent, specifically stating that power plants cannot have been operational for more than 18 months prior to the data center's launch.

Industry representatives have warned that these conditions may deter significant investment. Emilio Díaz, president of the sector association A Spain DC, stated that between 80% and 90% of planned investment—totaling approximately 55 billion euros—could be at risk. The industry suggests that these stringent rules might drive future data center projects away from Spain toward alternative destinations such as Portugal and France.