Illinois Lawmaker Proposes Commonsense Path for Data Centers, Emphasizing Energy and Water Responsibility
Collin Corbett, an independent candidate for governor of Illinois, has proposed a 'commonsense path forward' for data centers in the state, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental protection and consumer interests. His proposal addresses concerns regarding energy consumption, water usage, and tax implications of data centers. Key recommendations include requiring data centers to bear 100% of the cost for their energy and grid infrastructure to prevent increased electric bills for residents. This would involve a 'bring your own generation' model utilizing wind, solar, battery storage, small modular reactors, and natural gas in the short term, with long-term investments in large-scale nuclear and advanced geothermal. Additionally, the plan calls for reducing water consumption by mandating closed-loop cooling systems and incentivizing the use of treated wastewater, along with transparent negotiations, community benefit agreements, and property tax relief measures. 
