PSC candidate calls for protections when reviewing data center contracts
Democratic PSC Place 2 candidate Sheila McNeil is calling for the Alabama Public Service Commission to implement stronger protections for ratepayers and communities when reviewing contracts between Alabama Power and large-load data centers. She advocates for transparency, community benefits, and regional planning, emphasizing that data centers should cover their own infrastructure costs. The PSC is currently accepting public comments on these review procedures.
Sheila McNeil, a Democratic candidate for Alabama Public Service Commission (PSC) Place 2, is advocating for enhanced protections for Alabama ratepayers and communities as the commission finalizes procedures for reviewing contracts between Alabama Power and large-load data centers. McNeil urges the PSC to prioritize transparency, require measurable community benefits, and incorporate a regional coordination strategy into its review process. Her proposals include ensuring that large-load customers, rather than existing ratepayers, bear the costs of necessary utility infrastructure.
McNeil highlighted that data centers have impacts beyond a single community, affecting regional electric grids, water resources, transportation, housing, and workforce needs. She called for a regional planning strategy that would bring together various levels of government, utilities, experts, and affected communities, arguing this would provide the PSC with the necessary information to determine if proposed contracts serve the public interest and protect ratepayers.
While acknowledging that the PSC does not control data center siting or environmental permitting, McNeil believes coordinated regional information is crucial for informed contract decisions. She also encouraged the PSC to hold public hearings in affected communities before making significant contract decisions, allowing residents a meaningful voice. The PSC is currently soliciting public comments on these review procedures until August 6.