Beyond the Ballot: Will Permitting Reform Survive the Lame Duck, and What It Means for Data Center Deals

The Lame Duck Session: Last Chance, Live Wires, Long Odds

Election Day is behind us, but for data centers, the main event is just getting started. Voters had plenty to say at the ballot box. The question now is what Congress will do about it. Will permitting reform cross the finish line before this session ends, or become one more casualty of the lame duck?

Join Sidley’s Michael Borden and Ken Irvin, who together bring experience in Congress, energy regulation, and data center transactions, on November 16 for a practical discussion of where things stand and what it means for your business.

Our panelists will cover:

• Permitting reform in the lame duck: Where BAAJA stands, the vote math, and realistic timing before the new Congress convenes in January.
• Implications for data center deals: What could change for grid cost allocation, interconnection, power procurement, behind-the-meter projects, and financing, whether or not the bill becomes law.
• Ballot measures and local opposition: Over two dozen jurisdiction voted for data center bans or restrictions – what does this signal for siting and developing future projects.
• Practical steps now: What developers, investors, and lenders should be considering in their deals today.