Oklahoma farmer, data center CEO back bills signed by Gov. Stitt to protect ratepayers, water supply

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has signed two new bills into law aimed at regulating data center operations within the state. The legislation seeks to address community concerns regarding resource consumption by data centers, specifically focusing on energy costs for ratepayers and the accountability of water usage.

One bill ensures that Oklahomans will not experience utility bill hikes to cover the energy consumption of data centers, while the other mandates accountability for the water used by these facilities. Local farmer Kevin Marshall supported the legislation, stating that while technology cannot be stopped, policies are necessary to manage its impact on vital resources like irrigation and groundwater. He expressed some concern, however, that the required annual reporting might delay the identification of potential problems.

David Berry, CEO of Cloverleaf, a company with a data center project underway in Piedmont, also endorsed the new regulations. Berry emphasized that good regulation, as opposed to unnecessary red tape, is beneficial as it protects residents' electric bills and water supply. Both the Oklahoma Corporation Commission and utility company OG&E also voiced support for the legislation, agreeing that it helps keep rates in check.