Nebraska Legislature advances bill paving the way for data centers

The Nebraska Legislature has advanced a bill aimed at regulating large private companies, particularly data center developers, in how they fund, construct, and connect major energy projects to the state's electric grid. The bill requires any private company undertaking such a project to connect to a public utility and cover the costs of necessary infrastructure upgrades. Senator Danielle Conrad spearheaded opposition to the bill, emphasizing growing nationwide concerns over data centers' potential impact on land, water, and power resources. She highlighted worries about the strain on Nebraska's energy supply, utility rates, and water usage, citing a report that Google's planned data center in the state could consume as much power as the City of Lincoln. Conrad proposed amendments requiring private companies to disclose their power and water consumption, sources, and economic impact before connecting to a utility, arguing the bill creates a risky, fast-tracked business model. However, these amendments were struck down by bill supporters, some of whom denied any direct connection to Google's project. The Legislature ultimately approved the bill by a vote of 34-7.