New York State Comptroller Candidate Discusses Data Center Moratorium and Utility Costs
New York State comptroller candidate Raj Goyle argues for a new approach to regulate AI data centers and rising utility costs. He criticizes incumbent Tom DiNapoli for inaction, advocating for audits of the Public Service Commission, ratepayer rebates, and a proposed "AI Data Center Fair Share Fee." This comes as the Legislature recently passed a 1-year moratorium on new data centers.
New York State comptroller candidate Raj Goyle has called for a new approach to regulating artificial intelligence data centers and addressing rising utility costs, drawing a parallel to New Jersey's plan to prevent working families from subsidizing tech giants' operating expenses.
Goyle criticized incumbent Comptroller Tom DiNapoli's response to the issue, asserting that the comptroller's office possesses the authority to audit state decisions, including the Public Service Commission (PSC). He proposes implementing ratepayer rebates, clawing back excess profits from utility companies like Con Edison and National Grid, and returning funds to consumers, especially in light of recent PSC-approved rate hikes that have significantly boosted utility profits.
The candidate highlighted the impact of rising costs on New Yorkers and the rapid development of AI data centers in upstate towns, which prompted nearly 500 New York businesses to advocate for a temporary moratorium. The Legislature recently passed a one-year moratorium on new data centers. Goyle also advocates for an "AI Data Center Fair Share Fee" to ensure data center companies contribute to grid demand costs rather than shifting them to consumers.
He challenged DiNapoli's argument that the comptroller's office is limited in scope, citing the office's legal power to audit state agencies, investigate spending, review state contracts, and leverage the state pension fund for transparency. Goyle further pointed to DiNapoli's acceptance of significant campaign donations from the utility industry as a potential conflict of interest, arguing for a comptroller willing to actively protect New Yorkers.