Energy (Utility Regulation)

HB 2949 requires large data centers (defined as facilities with at least 100 megawatts of peak demand) to directly pay for all energy costs related to their operations, including fuel, generation, and transmission. This applies to both public power entities (like municipal utilities) and public service corporations (like investor-owned utilities). The bill prohibits these data centers from passing these costs onto other utility customers, ensuring ratepayers aren’t burdened by the facilities’ energy expenses. The law aims to address cost allocation for high-energy data infrastructure without altering broader utility rate structures.

HB 2113 amends Arizona law to strengthen the role of the Director of Residential Utility Consumers. It requires the Director to intervene in public utility rate cases when proposed increases would raise residential customers' bills by 100% or more. The bill also mandates that the Director record all consumer contacts about service quality to identify broader issues, and refers consumers to the Corporation Commission for further assistance. These changes directly affect Arizona residential utility customers by giving the Director greater authority to challenge significant rate hikes.