EPA plans permitting reforms to speed up US data centre construction

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EPA administrator Lee Zeldin said new guidance would allow certain building work that does not affect air emissions, such as installing cement pads, to proceed before a Clean Air Act construction permit is issued. The agency intends to launch a rulemaking process to clarify the definition of “Begin Actual Construction” under NSR regulations, distinguishing between emissions-related and non-emissions-related activities.

The EPA said the reforms are designed to support growth in data centres, manufacturing, and energy infrastructure, while maintaining environmental safeguards. The measures are also positioned as part of the Trump administration’s wider strategy to strengthen US industrial capacity and promote investment in artificial intelligence.

They fall under the EPA’s Powering the Great American Comeback initiative, announced by Zeldin in Febrary this year, which the EPA said would include actions to address America’s energy needs while taking steps to safeguard human health and the environment.

The NSR programme requires new or modified stationary sources of air pollution to secure permits before construction. The move follows representations from industry groups who have argued the process creates uncertainty and extends project timelines.