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Lombardy data center expansion protests and regulation

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-10-24 07:18 UTC → 2026-10-25 04:29 UTC · added removed

Opposition to the expansion of digital infrastructure in Italy’s Lombardy region has intensified through organized protests and the formation of regional committees. On October 3, over 600 protesters marched in Rho to demand a moratorium on new data center construction, citing concerns over noise, heat dispersion, increased emissions, and electrical grid strain. The demonstration included a symbolic raid on a planned site at the former Nilit-Radici industrial area. Following these events, a A regional network of committees was officially formed in Milan on September 26 to coordinate opposition. Activists and experts have organized public opposition, with plans for a demonstration in Milan on October 10. Public meetings, such as one in Pavia on October 6, have featured experts like environmentalist Enrico Duranti and physicist Sergio Manera to address the ‘heat island effect’ and the rapid proliferation of projects. effect’. Specific developments projects under scrutiny include the Stack campus in Siziano, a Microsoft site in Bornasco, and projects developments in Certosa and Garlasco. In Pavia, local authorities indicated they would not authorize certain developments following reports of significant increases in power grid connection requests, such as at the former Chatillon area. In response to the sector's rapid evolution, response, the Lombardy Regional Council has approved the ‘Second Law of Ordinary Normative Revision 2026.’ This legislation introduces new regulations to balance digital interest with environmental protection, making makes Lombardy the first Italian region to establish a structured framework for data center management. management, balancing digital interests with environmental protection. Key provisions include mandatory high-efficiency water cooling systems and requirements for electricity to be sourced from renewable energy. Additionally, to energy sourcing. To prevent speculative grid connection requests, new strain, facilities must now obtain feasibility certification from Terna or local distribution managers distributors before beginning authorization. While infrastructure investments in the authorization process. sector are estimated to reach 36.9 billion euros between 2026 and 2036, potentially creating 26,000 jobs, opposition parties continue to call for a moratorium. The law also clarifies municipal roles regarding installations on agricultural land or outside priority areas, which may require urban planning variations. Italian Datacenter Association (IDA) expressed cautious optimism, stating that many public concerns are manageable under existing tools.

Versions

  1. 2026-10-25 04:29 UTC Lombardy data center expansion protests and regulation
  2. 2026-10-24 07:18 UTC Lombardy data center expansion protests and regulation
  3. 2026-10-23 12:44 UTC Lombardy data center expansion protests and regulation
  4. 2026-10-05 19:46 UTC Lombardy data center expansion protests

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