These data center developers asked Trump for an exemption from pollution rules

Grist

by Naveena Sadasivam

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Two major data center developers, Novva and Thunderhead Energy Solutions, recently sought exemptions from pollution rules under President Donald Trump's administration to address their growing energy demands. These requests highlight the challenges faced by the data center industry in balancing rapid growth with environmental regulations. While Novva proposed building its own natural gas plant, it turned to diesel- and gas-fired generators as a quicker solution, despite their high emissions. Thunderhead’s request was even more ambitious, proposing a 5,000-megawatt gas-fired plant in Texas—a facility far larger than the state's current power plants. The companies argued that these measures were essential for national security, particularly to maintain U.S. AI supremacy amid growing global competition. Novva specifically referenced concerns about China’s advancements in AI, such as DeepSeek-R1, as a reason to prioritize their energy needs. Both companies’ requests underscored the industry’s desperate need for reliable and affordable power to meet hyperscaler demands, which often require massive energy consumption. However, these proposals raise significant environmental concerns. Diesel and gas-fired generators emit harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide, while natural gas plants contribute to higher carbon dioxide emissions compared to renewable energy sources. The industry’s reliance on fossil fuels not only exacerbates climate change but also contradicts broader efforts to transition to cleaner energy. Despite these challenges, data centers continue to expand rapidly, driven by the growing demand for cloud computing and AI. The requests for presidential exemptions reveal a tension between technological innovation and environmental sustainability. While the tech industry often positions itself as a leader in clean energy, these examples show that many companies are still heavily reliant on fossil fuels. This reliance not only contributes to pollution but also highlights the broader systemic issues within the energy sector. As data centers continue to grow, addressing their environmental impact will be crucial for achieving meaningful progress in combating climate change. Ultimately, the story of Novva and Thunderhead serves as a cautionary tale about the intersection of technology and environment. While the industry’s quest for power is driven by innovation and economic interests, it comes at a significant cost to our planet. As the demand for data processing continues to rise, finding sustainable solutions will be essential to ensure that technological progress doesn’t come at the expense of our climate.

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Originally published on Grist on 2/24/2026