A new bill in North Dakota aims to regulate large power users, including data centers, by instituting a state siting process. Proposed by Rep. Anna Novak, the legislation seeks to address rising electricity demands that threaten the power grid. While some utility regulators support the bill for its potential consumer protections, not all are convinced, viewing it as unnecessary regulation. The power industry and data center operators largely oppose the measures, raising concerns about the impact on future business development.
Details on HB 1579 can be found below.
HB 1579
A BILL for an Act to amend and reenact sections 49-03.1-01, 49-03.1-02, 49-03.1-03, and 49-03.1-05 of the North Dakota Century Code, relating to the requirement for data centers to obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity.
House Sponsors: Novak (R, District 33), Heinert (R, District 32), Porter (R, District 34),
Senate Sponsors: Kessel (R, District 39), Patten (R, District 26),