Gov. Stein and A.G. Jackson urge data centers to address energy costs amid skyrocketing utility rates for consumers
Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson are urging North Carolina regulators to adopt Duke Energy rules that would require prospective data centers and other large electricity users to bear more of the costs of new generation and grid infrastructure. The state estimates data center growth could contribute to more than $50 billion in costs by 2050 and drive electricity rates up as much as 70 percent over 15 years.
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson are calling on the North Carolina Utilities Commission to approve Duke Energy’s proposed large-load tariffs and related protections for residential ratepayers. The proposal would require data centers to help pay for dedicated grid upgrades, maintain minimum bills, sign long-term infrastructure agreements and face exit penalties, while also establishing a public contract template.
Stein said data center demand could impose more than $50 billion in costs by 2050 if the rules do not change. He and Jackson also urged large electricity users to develop or directly fund renewable energy, while environmental advocates including NC Warn Executive Director Jim Warren said the administration’s approach may not go far enough. The Utilities Commission is expected to decide on Duke’s proposal by mid-November.