We Energies proposes special electric rate for data centers. Aim is to protect other customers.

We Energies on Monday proposed a special electric rate aimed at data centers including the Microsoft center under construction in Mount Pleasant and a proposed facility in Port Washngton.

The rate is meant to ensure that other ratepayers are not saddled with costs associated with building power plants and electric infrastructure necessary for power-hungry data centers, according to the state`s largest utility.

• We Energies proposed a new electric rate specifically designed for very large customers, primarily data centers.
  
  
• This rate aims to cover the costs of building power plants and infrastructure for energy-intensive data centers, like the Microsoft facility in Mount Pleasant.
  
  
• Data centers, crucial for online activities, require massive amounts of electricity, with the Mount Pleasant facility projected to need as much power as 300,000 homes.
  
  
• This proposal reflects growing national concerns about the energy and water demands of data centers, particularly with the rise of artificial intelligence technology.
  
  
• Concerns remain about the environmental impact of data centers and potential risks of overbuilding if demand decreases.