Industry experts, consumer advocates inform Missouri lawmakers of risks, rewards in data centers

Missouri lawmakers recently convened at the State Capitol in Jefferson City to discuss the state's accelerating data center boom, with 45 sites and growing, attracting tech companies to the "Show-Me State" as a major hub. The legislative body is currently debating whether to welcome the industry or impose stricter regulations. Rob Dixon from Ameren, an electric utility, presented the industry's perspective, highlighting the tremendous capital investment opportunity, job creation, tax revenues, and broader economic impact data centers bring to Missouri communities. Dixon also addressed "common misconceptions," stating that data centers are not significantly louder than a lawn mower and their energy use will not cause consumer bills to rise, citing consumer protections passed last year that require large energy consumers to sign multi-year contracts agreeing to pay for a certain amount of energy. Dixon expressed confidence that the Legislature, Governor, Public Service Commission, and utilities are ensuring these projects are done right and will serve Missouri well. Conversely, John Coffman of the Consumers Council represented a dissenting voice, arguing that more needs to be done to ensure data centers pay their fair share and prevent consumer bills from subsidizing these facilities. Coffman noted that Missouri energy companies could legally charge customers for improvements and expansions needed to support data centers. He suggested that data centers should be required to construct their own energy sources, emphasizing that approximately 40% of Missourians cannot afford additional costs on their bills. With less than two weeks remaining in the legislative session, it is uncertain if any further data center regulations will be passed this year, indicating a potential carryover of the debate into the next legislative session.