Key developments

1. Jul 25, 2026

   The bipartisan Ratepayer Protection Act would require data centers over 100 megawatts to help fund grid upgrades amid surging AI-driven demand.

   136 sources on this →
2. Jul 25, 2026

   Colorado enacts laws standardizing energy assistance and boosting geothermal development, as federal Republicans push a similar POWER Act requiring data centers to cover grid costs.

   7 sources on this →

Coverage across the spectrum

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Photo: Donald Trump — Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons

Pledge Expands to Include TVA and GOP Governors

The Ratepayer Protection Act would require large data centers to fund grid upgrades and related infrastructure, targeting facilities over 100 megawatts and enjoying bipartisan House support as AI infrastructure expands. Proponents say the bill protects consumers from higher bills, but critics warn it ignores water usage and local impacts, prompting ongoing debate and protests.

136 sources

Colorado Energy-Affordability Laws Take Effect

Colorado approves two laws to standardize energy assistance and boost geothermal development to reduce utility costs for families, while federal Republicans push the POWER Act to speed energy permitting, strengthen the grid, and shield consumers from higher prices, including requirements on data centers to cover grid upgrades. The package consolidates multiple bills aimed at expediting projects and bolstering energy reliability amid rising demand.