Vindman introduces bill to shield customers from data center electricity costs

“Families in Virginia and across the country should not have to pay higher electricity bills to subsidize some of the largest and most energy-intensive data centers and computing facilities in the world,” Vindman said in an announcement, the Fredericksburg Free Press reports.

The bill would amend the Federal Power Act to require data centers and high-density computing facilities with electricity demands of at least 20 megawatts to cover the incremental costs of serving their needs. Vindman, whose 7th District includes the Fredericksburg area, said the measure puts ratepayers first.

Data centers are already operating or proposed in Fredericksburg and in Stafford, Spotsylvania, Caroline, and King George counties. He previously introduced the Smart Data Center Policy Act in August to limit development near neighborhoods, schools, and parks.

He faces five challengers on the Nov. 3 ballot. Early voting is underway.

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