Future Data Centers are Driving Up Forecasts for Energy; States Want Proof They'll Be Built
Because of the impact that future plants pose to current ratepayers, state regulators want proof that proposed data centers will actually get built.
Because of the impact that future plants pose to current ratepayers, state regulators want proof that proposed data centers will actually get built.
HARRISBURG, Pa., Nov. 16, 2025 (AP) — The forecasts are eye-popping: utilities saying they'll need two or three times more electricity within a few years to power massive new data centers that are feeding a fast-growing AI economy.
But the challenges — some say the impossibility — of building new power plants to meet that demand so quickly has set off alarm bells for lawmakers, policymakers and regulators who wonder if those utility forecasts can be trusted.
One burning question is whether the forecasts are based on data center projects that may never get built — eliciting concern that regular ratepayers could be stuck with the bill to build unnecessary power plants and grid infrastructure at a cost of billions of dollars.
Two of the three dominant global mobile equipment vendors are European, the partnership's governing board chair said.
The satellite TV operator says Nexstar withheld from FCC certain economic studies it provided the Justice Department. Nexstar had no comment
Supporters said electing commissioners would give residents more influence over electricity rates and energy policy.
ACLP said some ISPs may have more than they could handle in broadband deployment.
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