As demand for data centers accelerates, so do the challenges of securing reliable, scalable power—particularly in high-growth, high-temperature regions where grid constraints, extreme weather and regulatory scrutiny are reshaping development strategies. Sheppard’s Digital Infrastructure industry team is launching a webinar series, The Big Think Around Data Centers, which will cover the dynamic issues shaping the future of digital infrastructure.
This series is designed for leaders across the digital infrastructure ecosystem and will deliver practical, forward-looking insights at the intersection of energy regulation, market innovation and technology infrastructure. Join us for the conversation—and stay tuned for future sessions addressing the next wave of opportunities and challenges facing the industry.
Part 1: Data Center Siting Strategies in an Evolving Landscape
Data center siting is one of the most closely watched issues at both the national and local levels. As demand for digital infrastructure accelerates, developers and operators face increasing scrutiny, evolving regulatory requirements and heightened community engagement. Successfully navigating this dynamic environment is more critical than ever.
Join Sheppard’s land use and energy regulatory team for a timely discussion of the legal, regulatory and political developments shaping data center development across the country, including key takeaways from the 2026 midterm elections. Our panel will explore practical strategies for securing entitlements, addressing stakeholder concerns and positioning projects for success in an increasingly complex siting environment.
Speakers:
- James Pugh, Partner, Sheppard
- Jeffrey Forrest, Partner, Sheppard
- Shane Early, Special Counsel, Sheppard
For information on Part 2, see here.
Continuing Education Credit
CA: This activity has been approved for 1 hour of Minimum Continuing Legal Education general credit by the State Bar of California. Sheppard Mullin Richter & Hampton LLP certifies that this activity conforms to the standards for approved education activities prescribed by the rules and regulations of the State Bar of California governing minimum continuing legal education.
NY: This program has been approved in accordance with the requirements of the New York State Continuing Legal Education Board for a maximum of 1 credit hour which may be applied toward the Areas of Professional Practice requirement and is suitable for both transitional and non-transitional attorneys.
TX: This course has been approved for Minimum Continuing Legal Education credit by the State Bar of Texas Committee on MCLE in the amount of 1 general credit hour.
IL: An application for accreditation of this activity will be submitted to the MCLE Board of the Supreme Court of Illinois for 1 general.
VA: An application for accreditation of this activity will be submitted to the Virigina State Board for 1 general credit.