As the demand for artificial intelligence continues to grow, renewable energy allies are pushing for cleaner alternatives to power data centers. Lawmakers in states with strong climate policies are working to ensure that data centers do not hinder their goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

State-Level Initiatives

Michigan, Oregon, and Minnesota have enacted laws requiring electric utilities to use only emissions-free energy sources by 2040. Other states, including California, Illinois, and New Jersey, are considering similar legislation. New York Governor Kathy Hochul is reviewing a bill that would require data centers over a certain size to meet renewable energy benchmarks starting in 2030.

Renewable energy advocates argue that tech giants have the resources to invest in clean energy sources, such as solar and wind power, to power their data centers. Google, for example, has invested billions in zero-emissions projects, including solar, wind, and geothermal energy.

Regulatory Efforts

Environmental groups and tech companies are working together to persuade regulators to expand access to the grid, allowing for the connection of clean energy sources. In Colorado, regulators have approved a program to let big power users build clean energy projects that can be connected to the grid. Similar programs are being considered in other states, including Indiana, Kansas, and Missouri.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.