Wyoming's data center boom prompts lawmakers to address electricity consumption and resource management.

Wyoming lawmakers are preparing to scrutinize the state's growing data center industry, focusing on its substantial electricity consumption and resource management. Rep. Daniel Singh, a Republican from Laramie County and House Chair of the Select Committee on Blockchain, Financial Technology And Digital Innovation Technology, announced that his committee will specifically examine data centers' electricity usage and cooling technologies. Singh expressed concerns that large-scale computing operations could impact the availability and cost of power for Wyoming residents and businesses. He also indicated that while the Select Water Committee will handle direct water usage discussions, his committee will explore broader cooling systems to reduce water reliance. Singh suggested the state might impose rules on water usage and push for data centers to generate their own "behind the meter power," ideally using Wyoming's traditional fuels. Amidst this legislative attention, there is significant public concern, particularly in the Cheyenne area. Residents worry that data centers could lead to skyrocketing water and electricity bills. Rick Coppinger, a vocal critic and former mayoral candidate in Cheyenne, pointed to the high water consumption of these facilities, even those using sealed or glycol systems, and expressed alarm over the need for government intervention to prevent increased costs for citizens.