Big data centers are becoming a bigger part of everyday life. They support online services, cloud computing, and new technologies. We want that innovation powered responsibly — with renewable energy that keeps electricity affordable.
Data centers already use a significant share of our electricity — about 4 % in the U.S. today — and could more than double their power demand by 2030. As demand rises, utilities must build new power plants and expand transmission lines to keep the lights on. In several regions, those costs are already being passed along to households and small businesses through higher electric bills — even when families are using less power themselves. Reporting has shown that rapid data center growth has contributed to rising electricity prices and grid strain in parts of the country. States with major data center expansion are seeing noticeable increases in power costs, with experts warning that more price pressure is likely as demand continues to climb.
At the same time, new facilities being proposed will continue to rely on the burning of fossil fuels – which is more costly and bad for the environment., We believe that any new data centers being built should be powered by cleaner, cheaper renewable energy – NOT fossil fuels.
What We’re Asking For
We’re calling on our elected officials to:
- Require data centers to use 100% clean, renewable energy
— so growth doesn’t mean more carbon pollution or higher bills. - Protect regular electricity customers
— by ensuring utilities don’t pass all upgrade costs on to families and small businesses. - Support a faster clean energy build-out
— so renewables stay ahead of rising demand.
This is a chance to do things right. With thoughtful planning, we can welcome innovation, support good jobs, and build a cleaner, more affordable energy system that works for everyone.