FRANKFORT, Ky. (WMDJ) — Gov. Andy Beshear signed an executive order Thursday establishing new requirements for companies seeking to develop data centers in Kentucky.

Under the order, developers must submit an energy plan to the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet showing how the project would meet its energy needs without adding costs for residential customers. The Public Service Commission is also directed to prevent utilities from raising rates on other customers to recover costs caused by the development or operation of a data center.

The Energy and Environment Cabinet must deny permit applications when a proposed data center would negatively affect air quality, water use, water quality, water supplies, wetlands or other natural resources.

The order also requires developers to commit to paying their full share of state and local taxes, including taxes supporting local schools. Companies must also engage in public discussions with local leaders and residents and address questions about proposed projects.

Beshear’s order does not approve any specific data center project. Decisions about whether data centers can operate within a community remain with local officials.