Illinois urged to regulate data centers amidst rising power costs
This commentary from the Citizens Utility Board calls for Illinois policymakers to regulate data centers, arguing that the industry contributes to skyrocketing power bills. It highlights a significant increase in electricity costs for millions of Illinois consumers over the past two years. The author urges for measures that would make 'Big Tech' accountable for the energy costs they impose on the state's residents.
Sarah Moskowitz, executive director of the Citizens Utility Board, penned a commentary published in Crain's Chicago Business, urging Illinois policymakers to implement regulations on data centers. The piece argues that a lack of accountability for "Big Tech" companies contributes to significant increases in electricity bills for millions of consumers across the state.
Moskowitz highlights that Illinois residents have seen their power bills surge by 40% to 50% in the last two years. She calls for legislative action to ensure data center operators bear more of the costs associated with their substantial energy consumption, rather than burdening average consumers with skyrocketing utility expenses.