Protection from data centers

The Oklahoma Senate, on Tuesday, unanimously passed House Bill 2992, known as the Data Center Consumer Ratepayer Protection Act of 2026. Spearheaded by Senator Grant Green, R-Wellston, the legislation seeks to safeguard Oklahomans from potential utility cost increases resulting from the growing number of data centers across the state. An amended version of the bill, approved by a 46-0 Senate vote, includes enhanced transparency requirements and provisions for community input regarding new data center developments. Senator Green, who chairs the Senate Energy Committee, stated that the legislation ensures "all developments that would put significant strain on Oklahoma’s electric grid must cover their own costs," preventing Oklahoma families, farmers, ranchers, and small businesses from bearing these expenses. Specifically, the measure mandates that "large load" users, such as data centers, artificial intelligence facilities, and cryptocurrency mining operations, are responsible for their share of electricity and infrastructure costs. It also directs the Corporation Commission and other regulatory bodies to ensure fair rates for Oklahomans and local businesses, uninflated by these new users' substantial energy demands. Electric suppliers will also be required to establish separate billing terms for these large energy customers. Before its passage, Senator Green introduced an amendment bolstering community protections and transparency for future "large load" projects. This requires developers to provide 60 days' notice before purchasing land for a project, informing the Corporation Commission, local county commissioners, and property owners within five miles of the site. This notice must also be published in a local newspaper for two weeks, detailing a public meeting where developers will address residents' questions. Non-compliant entities will face fines. The bill now proceeds to the House, where Rep. Brad Boles, R-Marlow, is the primary author.