Bill > H0727

This bill establishes a regulatory framework for data centers in Vermont, defining a "data center" as a facility using 20 megawatts or more of power for data processing, hosting, and related services. It mandates that such data centers must enter into a "large load service equity contract" with an electric company, which requires fair cost allocation for electricity service, mitigation of costs for other ratepayers, and provisions for demand-side management and financial assurances. The bill also requires data centers to consult with efficiency utilities early in their design phase, submit quarterly reports on water and energy usage, and obtain necessary environmental permits, including specific requirements for water usage for cooling and a prohibition on adding PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of man-made chemicals) to discharged wastewater. Furthermore, it mandates a report on regional renewable energy market conditions and a recommendation for a regulatory model for data center decommissioning to ensure environmental protection and responsible closure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.727