An Act to amend 16.957 (2) (d) 3., 25.96 and 238.40 (2) (b); to create 16.296, 16.957 (2) (a) 5., 20.505 (1) (gj), 66.0443, 101.028, 103.08, 196.03 (7), 196.03 (8), 196.493, 196.498, 238.40 (1) (am) and 238.40 (1) (b) 3. of the statutes; Relating to: large energy customer fees; electric utility very large customer class; a renewable resource tariff; building requirements for data centers; water usage by large customers; required pay rate on large-scale data center projects; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Impact
If enacted, SB729 will significantly affect state laws regulating energy consumption and labor in the construction sector. The bill requires large energy customers to pay annual fees proportional to their electricity demand, contributing to a fund dedicated to promoting energy efficiency and renewable resources. Furthermore, it mandates reporting on energy and water usage at the state level, enhancing transparency and resource management for large data centers. The Public Service Commission will play a crucial role in defining 'very large customers' and adjusting tariffs to ensure fairness and accountability.
Summary
Senate Bill 729 introduces regulations concerning large-scale data centers and large energy customers in Wisconsin. It stipulates that laborers involved in constructing or refurbishing large data centers must receive either the prevailing wage rate or the higher wage outlined in their collective bargaining agreements. The bill aims to ensure that projects contribute fairly to the local economy by prioritizing fair labor practices and sustainable energy use. Additionally, the legislation sets a minimum threshold for energy use, mandating that at least 70% of the energy consumed by these data centers be from renewable sources, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Contention
Debates surrounding SB729 could arise from concerns about its economic implications, particularly regarding the potential impact of the mandated labor costs on project feasibility. Proponents argue that fair wages will enhance the quality of work and boost local economies, while critics may claim that such requirements could deter investment in large-scale data centers. Additionally, the bill’s strict energy requirements and reporting obligations may be viewed as overly burdensome by some stakeholders, creating tension between regulatory oversight and business interests.
Crossfiled
An Act to amend 16.957 (2) (d) 3., 25.96 and 238.40 (2) (b); to create 16.296, 16.957 (2) (a) 5., 20.505 (1) (gj), 66.0443, 101.028, 103.08, 196.03 (7), 196.03 (8), 196.493, 196.498, 238.40 (1) (am) and 238.40 (1) (b) 3. of the statutes; Relating to: large energy customer fees; electric utility very large customer class; a renewable resource tariff; building requirements for data centers; water usage by large customers; required pay rate on large-scale data center projects; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Large energy customer fees; electric utility very large customer class; a renewable resource tariff; building requirements for data centers; water usage by large customers; required pay rate on large-scale data center projects; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)
Requires electric public utilities to develop and apply special rules for large load customers to protect non-large load customers from increased costs.
Extending the expiration date for provisions that authorize an electric utility to not offer parallel generation service to certain large load customers and exempt certain large load customers from the determination of the utility's peak demand.