A trilogue that should be done by Friday is not being done by Friday
Negotiators are shrugging. The data centre energy clause is the sticking point.
By Clara Fontaine · Filed Monday, 31 August 2026 · Last updated 16:05 CET
What happened
The fourth trilogue on the energy efficiency file ended without agreement. Negotiators cited unresolved language on reporting obligations for large data centres.
Why it matters
Data centres are now a serious share of electricity demand in several member states. How they are measured determines who pays for grid upgrades.
The Brussels angle
Trilogues run on the assumption that everyone wants a deal before the presidency changes hands. Once that assumption weakens, the meetings get shorter and the statements get vaguer.
What happens next
A technical meeting is scheduled before the next political trilogue. The presidency wants a deal before the end of its term.
Written from these sources
Facts are extracted from primary institutional material and written independently by The Gazette desk.
Parliament Correspondent · European Parliament
Clara FontaineClara Fontaine reports on the European Parliament, its committees and its coalition arithmetic. She counts votes for a living and still occasionally wins.
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