Bill > HB2061

This bill requires data centers, defined as privately owned facilities housing computer equipment with a power capacity exceeding twenty megawatts, to register with the Tennessee Public Utility Commission (PUC) starting January 1, 2027. Owners or operators of these data centers must provide information such as their physical address, contact details, power capacity, the utilities serving them, and employee numbers. Electric and water utilities that provide service to registered data centers will be required to report the amount of electricity or water used by these facilities and the rates charged, even if not otherwise mandated by law. The PUC's executive director will then compile and publish this usage and rate data monthly on the commission's website. Failure to comply with registration or reporting requirements can result in civil penalties of up to $1,000 per day, capped at $25,000, and the PUC can seek court orders to stop ongoing violations. The PUC is also authorized to create rules to implement this act.