Streamlines the permitting process for data centres
21 Feb 2026
On 21 February 2026, Decree No. 21 was published. Among its objectives is to facilitate the integration of data centres into the electricity grid. Article 8 of the Decree streamlines the authorization procedures for the construction, expansion and grid connection of data centres. All relevant authorizations and permits, including integrated pollution prevention and control permits and environmental impact assessments, are to be handled by a single competent authority in order to reduce administrative burdens and improve regulatory predictability.
Projects involving generators with a nominal thermal capacity of 50 MW or more fall within the competence of the regional or autonomous provincial authorities, while projects with a thermal capacity of 300 MW or more may be authorized by the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE). The Decree also introduces measures to reduce procedural timelines, particularly for environmental impact assessments.
The Decree further provides for expedited procedures for projects designated as being of strategic national interest. According to the Government, these measures are expected to facilitate investments in the data centre sector, including up to €1 billion in foreign investment.
Nature of measure:
Type:
-
Promotion and facilitation (Investment facilitation )
Industry:
-
Services (Other professional, scientific and technical activities)
Inward FDI:
Yes
Outward FDI:
No
Sources:
