May 2026 Perkins Luncheon: Data Centers - Policies, Permitting, and Regulation

Lauren McDonald, Senior Director of Washington State Government Affairs at Microsoft, and Mikaela Winter, Senior Program Manager for Energy Policy at Microsoft, presented on the company's approach to building data centers in ways that support both sustainability goals and local communities. Lauren outlined Microsoft's "Community-First Infrastructure" approach, highlighting its focus on affordable electricity, responsible water stewardship, job creation, tax revenue, and workforce development. Mikaela then discussed Microsoft's climate commitments and the initiatives supporting those goals, including the Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund. Watch the full panel here.