Energy policy comes into focus after Dems take majorities in Michigan
Michigan Democrats are considering a moratorium on new data center projects after winning majorities in the state Legislature and electing Jocelyn Benson governor. Lawmakers are also expected to revisit proposed guardrails on data center water and electricity use, including requirements that facilities pay for their power consumption.
Democrats' victories in Michigan have renewed discussion of energy affordability and data center regulation in Lansing. Incoming Senate Majority Leader Darrin Camilleri said he supports a moratorium on new data center projects, although he noted that the full Democratic caucus has not adopted a position. Republicans and some community residents have also called for pausing or rejecting new data center development.
Lawmakers previously introduced bills addressing data center water and electricity usage, but the proposals did not advance and could be reintroduced next year. Ben Poulson of the Michigan League of Conservation Voters highlighted Michigan Public Service Commission measures requiring data centers to pay for the electricity they use as a potential model for legislation. The article also discusses broader energy policy, utility accountability and legal challenges by DTE Energy and Consumers Energy to a ballot measure restricting campaign donations by investor-owned utilities.