Trump says data centers should generate their own electricity — but experts say only states can mandate that

President Trump announced that large data centers must generate their own electricity and provide a dividend to surrounding communities by sharing surplus power. This order follows intensifying voter backlash against these facilities before the midterm elections. While the president has issued this mandate, experts suggest that only states possess the legal authority to enforce such requirements on data centers. The initiative aims to reduce the energy burden on local grids while offering direct benefits to nearby residents.