Data center bill awaits state Senate vote

Oklahoma is advancing state-level legislation, HB2992, officially known as the Data Center Consumer Ratepayer Protection Act, designed to address the impact of large load customers, such as data centers, on electricity rates. Authored by Rep. Brad Boles and supported by Rep. Amanda Clinton, the bill secured overwhelming approval in the state House with a 92-2 vote. It now awaits consideration by the Senate Energy Committee before proceeding to a full Senate vote. The proposed legislation mandates that any governing body responsible for reviewing electric supplier rates must ensure that residential, commercial, and industrial customers are protected from unjust rates directly resulting from service to large load customers. It also requires that rates are fair, just, and reasonable, with costs and revenues allocated based on cost causation principles. If approved, the Oklahoma Corporation Commission would be tasked with drawing up the rules to implement the Act, with an effective date of July 1, 2026. This legislative push in Oklahoma is part of a broader national trend, as at least 10 other states are also considering similar bills proposing restrictions or outright bans on data center development due to growing public concern. The article highlights Maine as a frontrunner to enact a ban, with a bill pausing development until November 2027 expected to be signed by Governor Janet Mills. The increasing opposition to data centers stems from constituent anger over strained power grids, water supplies, and local infrastructure, transforming data center development into a significant political issue.