Florida Senate committee approves bill to manage data center utility costs

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

A Florida Senate committee has unanimously approved a bill requiring data centers to pay for their own electric service costs, aiming to protect residents and businesses from increased utility demands.

"This is a balance between making sure that we are still leading the way on tech, but also laying a foundation and protecting our consumers, and particularly making sure that our local governments in rural areas have a voice and a seat at the table," said state Sen. Bryan Avila, R-Miami Springs.

According to Pew Research, data centers are expected to account for nearly 4% of the country's total electricity consumption in 2024, with projections to more than double by 2030. Large data centers can use up to 5 million gallons of water a day, according to one environmental group.

Jon Brown, CEO of DCIP Group, said, "We strongly support the legislature’s goal of protecting Florida’s electrical infrastructure, water resources and communities. That goal is exactly why our project exists. It is our competitive advantage."

The bill also requires the Florida Public Service Commission to develop tariffs and service requirements to help shield other ratepayers.

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