Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition Introduces the POWER Act to Protect Ratepayers from Data Centers

A new bill is taking shape in Springfield, targeting the surging impact of data centers on Illinois’ power grid. State Senator Ram Villivalam has introduced the POWER Act, backed by the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition. Supporters argue the legislation will require Big Tech companies to bear a greater share of the rising electricity costs linked to rapidly expanding data centers. A Union of Concerned Scientists report warns that data centers could drive up Illinois’ electricity demand by 72% by 2030 and hike system costs by nearly $37 billion by 2025. The bill aims to shield ratepayers from these looming expenses.