A bill on New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy’s desk would require data centers to file quarterly reports on electricity and water consumption, making New Jersey one of the first states with such detailed mandates. (Inside Energy News)
Why now: Data centers already planned or under construction could add 93 GW of new load nationally by 2029, with New Jersey seeing a 20% spike in retail bills this summer. Lawmakers say households deserve clarity on what’s driving costs.
What it does: SB 4293/AB 5548 would mandate reporting separate from DEP water permits and Clean Energy Act benchmarking, giving regulators and utilities a clearer view of facilities’ ongoing usage.
Yes, but: Business groups warn the rule is duplicative and could deter investment, while advocates argue utilities and ratepayers need transparency as PJM braces for AI-driven load growth.