MEP Nicolás González Casares (S&D) has questioned the European Commission over the ongoing revision of the delegated act on the sustainability rating of data centres, warning that the Commission appears to be yielding to Big Tech demands by weakening criteria that would cut actual emissions and removing incentives for additional renewable energy. In a written parliamentary question dated 3 July 2026, González Casares argues that the revised rating system, as reported in recent news, reduces sustainability requirements for operators and risks compromising Europe's energy security, price affordability, and binding climate targets by allowing continued reliance on fossil fuels rather than encouraging new local renewable energy production.
first, that the final text include criteria reflecting actual sustainability by requiring additional renewable sources, with production located nearby and timed to match demand, rather than allowing emissions to be offset; second, that the Commission ensure the revision does not undermine energy security, affordability for consumers, or EU climate targets; and third, that the Commission carry out an assessment to prevent the risk of increased marginal generation using natural gas at peak times due to higher electricity demand from data centres.
González Casares advocates for a stringent, performance-based rating system that drives genuine emissions reductions and local renewable investment, opposing any dilution that would favour industry incumbents. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks; its answer will signal whether it intends to maintain a robust regulatory framework or accommodate industry concerns, with significant implications for data centre operators, renewable energy developers, EU consumers facing electricity costs, and the bloc's climate ambition.