The Trump administration has directed the Environmental Protection Agency to fast-track reviews of new chemicals for data centers and related projects. This policy, part of broader AI initiatives, raises concerns among experts about limited oversight for potentially harmful forever chemicals. While aimed at boosting technological dominance, it could expedite approvals for substances linked to health risks.
In September, the Environmental Protection Agency announced it would prioritize the regulatory review of new chemicals used in data centers or related projects. This move stems from executive orders on artificial intelligence and a White House AI Action Plan issued in July, following over 10,000 public comments, many from industry groups. The administration views these steps as ushering in a “golden age for American manufacturing and technological dominance.”
Former EPA official Greg Schweer, who led the new chemicals management branch from 2008 to 2020, expressed skepticism. “I think they want to impose as few restrictions as possible on chemicals,” he said. He contrasted this with past administrations, where “political people stayed out of [chemical regulation] — they tried to let science win.” Now, Schweer noted, “the industry has a willing set of ears that wants to listen to their opinions.”
The policy addresses a backlog of chemical reviews inherited from the Biden administration, which has delayed data center and AI projects, according to EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin. “The Trump EPA wants to get out of the way and help speed up progress on these critical developments,” Zeldin stated. Companies must demonstrate that their chemicals support “qualifying projects,” such as data centers, grid additions of at least 100 megawatts, or national security efforts approved by key cabinet secretaries.
EPA spokesperson Brigit Hirsch emphasized that “no part of the new chemicals review process will be skipped or bypassed,” maintaining scientific integrity. However, Schweer highlighted potential loopholes, like securing a qualifying letter from the Department of Defense or Commerce without proof, which could lead to rushed reviews and oversights.
Experts point to immersion cooling in data centers as a key area for new chemicals. Two-phase immersion cooling uses liquids that boil into gas for efficient heat management, potentially saving up to 90% on energy. Some, like those from Chemours, contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as forever chemicals for their persistence. PFAS have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and immune suppression. While the EU eyes a ban and U.S. states impose restrictions, the Trump administration has rolled back some PFAS rules despite calling it a priority.
Chemours, which faces ongoing PFAS lawsuits and has paid hundreds of millions in settlements, is commercializing such fluids after testing with Samsung. The company stressed developing “more sustainable and efficient cooling solutions” to manage heat from advanced chips. The semiconductor industry, vital for data centers, also relies on PFAS in manufacturing, including photolithography. Lobbying from groups like SEMI has pushed for regulatory changes to ensure access to essential chemicals.
Though most data center chemicals are not unique, the policy's broad scope could allow various industries to link products to data center growth, raising long-term safety concerns despite aims to clear backlogs and promote innovation.