EDF, PennFuture, Partners Host April 10 Webinar On PUC A.I. Data Centers Large Load Model Tariff

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has proposed a model tariff aiming to create a voluntary, specialized electricity pricing structure for high-energy-demand customers, specifically targeting major industrial facilities and data centers. This initiative seeks to balance the growth of AI data centers with the protection of ratepayers. The proposed tariff and related utility rate cases across Pennsylvania will be the focus of an April 10 webinar hosted by a coalition of environmental and advocacy organizations, including the Environmental Defense Fund, PennFuture, Clean Air Council, Vote Solar, Union of Concerned Scientists, POWER Interfaith, and Physicians for Social Responsibility Pennsylvania. Concurrently, the PA House has passed legislation authorizing the PUC to regulate AI data centers to ensure they cover their own costs. During a Senate PUC budget hearing, the PUC Chair noted that the current PJM market auction is not designed for data center demands, emphasizing the need for Pennsylvania to diversify its electricity fuel sources and promote "bring your own power" solutions. The PUC is currently inviting public comments on the proposed model tariff.