Spain Drafts Rules Requiring Data Centers to Source 80% of Power from New Renewables

The Spanish government is preparing to introduce legislation that would require data centers to source at least 80 percent of their electricity consumption from newly built renewable generation on an hourly basis, according to a draft decree first reported by Europa Press. The fast-tracked proposal, which has already been approved by the government for drafting, is expected to apply to all new data center projects with a capacity of 1MW or more.

The move comes as Spain experiences a rapid surge in data center development, driven by its abundant land and high renewable energy potential. Currently, more than 10GW of data center capacity is seeking grid connections across the country. The new rules would not apply to existing facilities, but would impose strict conditions on future projects, requiring operators to match each new MW of capacity with an equivalent amount of renewable generation installed within 18 months before the facility becomes operational.

Compliance could be achieved through onsite renewable deployments, such as rooftop solar, or through Power Purchase Agreements. However, the requirement is measured hourly, not annually, which represents a significant departure from typical renewable matching standards. Failure to comply would result in escalating surcharges on grid charges and network tariffs, and could ultimately lead to a loss of grid access.

The draft decree also introduces energy and water efficiency obligations. Data centers would need to meet the highest levels of the European data center energy and water efficiency labeling scheme, a framework expected to be enforced by the European Commission within the next year. Projects already under development would be granted a six-month grace period to align with the rules, or three months if they are awaiting a grid-access tender.

Industry sources told Europa Press that while the rules could significantly slow data center growth in Spain, the draft decree does not constitute a moratorium on new developments. Still, the proposal signals a tightening regulatory environment for digital infrastructure in Europe, as governments increasingly tie data center expansion to broader energy transition goals. The Spanish government is expected to open the proposal for public consultation before the rules are formally enforced.