Joint Ministerial Decision ΥΠΕΝ/ΔΙΠΑ/82255/5190 (GG Β’ 4095/29.07.2025) introduces, for the first time, an industry specific set of Standard Environmental Commitments (“SECs”) for data centers that fall under environmental classification Category Β (installed electrical capacity: from 2 MW up to—but not including—20 MW).
The Decision, which was issued pursuant to Article 8 of Law 4014/2011, establishes a fast-track, template-driven process that replaces the former, case-by-case environmental terms approval for Category B Data Centers. The issuance of the new Ministerial Decision will allow stakeholders to directly refer to this predefined set of environmental rules, thus providing long-sought regulatory certainty to investors in Greece’s rapidly expanding digital-infrastructure market.
Key points
Scope
The SECs apply exclusively to Category B Data Centers. Larger facilities (≥20 MW) remain in Category Α2 and must still obtain an Approval of Environmental Terms.
Competent authority
All filings are submitted to the Development Directorate of the relevant Regional Unit.
Procedure and timing
Project owner files a “Declaration for the submission to SECs” together with a standardised set of supporting documents (technical report, topographic plan, forest/archaeological opinions where applicable, etc.). The authority must verify completeness within ten (10) working days and, if the file is compliant with the applicable legislation, issue the decision for the submission of the project under SECs within an additional ten (10) working days. No construction or installation work may begin before the above decision is issued.
Validity and changes
SECs remain in force indefinitely, provided that no material modification to the “Declaration for the submission to SECs” occurs. Any alteration to the project’s parameters triggers a new assessment.
Environmental obligations
The annexed SECs impose detailed conditions on construction, operation, waste management, noise, cooling systems, decommissioning of equipment, etc.
Penalties
The “Declaration for the submission to SECs” has the validity of a solemn declaration of Law 1599/1986. Submission of false or inaccurate information voids the decision for the submission of the project under SECs and exposes the project owner to administrative fines and potential criminal liability.
Why it matters
The Joint Ministerial Decision delivers a predictable, accelerated licensing pathway for mid-sized data centers, aligning Greece with international best practice and supporting the government’s digital-transformation agenda. Developers should leverage the new framework to lock in project schedules but must ensure rigorous due diligence on land status and Natura 2000 constraints, as omissions can derail the expedited timeline.