The explosive growth of AI, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure is driving unprecedented demand for data centers across the country. But with opportunity comes complexity. Join George P. Bush, former Texas Land Commissioner and CEO of Pine Cove Strategies, and David Proaño and Glenn Benson from BakerHostetler, who will lead a practical, multidisciplinary discussion designed to help data center stakeholders identify risks earlier, make more informed decisions, and advance projects more efficiently.
This multidisciplinary webinar will include a practical introduction and overview of today’s data center development market and share insights from experienced advisors who will help stakeholders understand the key issues affecting the successful planning, permitting and development of data center facilities in jurisdictions across the country. This program will cover:
- Policy Challenges and Opportunities – Hon. George P. Bush, former Texas Land Commissioner and CEO of Pine Cove Strategies
A strategic policy perspective on the growing role of federal and state governments in regulating the development of AI and digital infrastructure projects, including load growth, grid reliability, infrastructure investment, regulatory priorities, and government relations. - Energy Contracts and Regulatory Issues – David Proaño, Partner, BakerHostetler and Glenn Benson, Partner, BakerHostetler
Experienced and practical insights into power procurement, the negotiation of load study and utility service arrangements, federal and state regulatory approvals, large load tariffs, and the evolving legal issues impacting electric utilities that are driving data center development and operational decisions. - Real Estate and Site Development – Landon Sullivan, Partner, BakerHostetler
Key considerations for identifying, securing and developing data center sites, including real estate acquisitions, leasing, land use, zoning, incentives, and infrastructure access. - Environmental and Permitting Considerations – Martin Booher, Partner, BakerHostetler
Practical guidance on environmental risks, permitting requirements, compliance obligations, and sustainability issues that can affect data center siting, development, and operations, including emergency generation and behind-the-meter generation projects. - Enforcement and Litigation Risk – Adam Baas, Partner, BakerHostetler
Practical legal strategies for addressing local community issues, local political dynamics, zoning and entitlement challenges, and environmental justice concerns that can affect data center siting and approvals.
1.0 hour of CLE credit is pending in CA, CO, FL, NJ, NY, ND, PA, TX, GA, IL, OH and OK. Other states may be available upon request.
For questions, please contact energyevents@bakerlaw.com.
