House Bill No. introduced by J. Fitzpatrick establishes the Montana Data Center Development Act, which aims to enhance the state's position as a leader in data center development by clarifying the role of the Public Service Commission (PSC) in serving large customers. The bill prohibits the PSC from preventing regulated public utilities from providing service to new large customers, specifically those with an average monthly demand of 5,000 kilowatts or more. It also amends existing law to ensure that the PSC's regulatory processes and tariff establishment align with the needs of these large energy consumers, particularly in light of the growing demand from data centers.

Additionally, the bill includes appropriations of $25,000 from the general fund to the Department of Commerce and the State Energy Office to promote Montana as a data center location and assist developers in acquiring electrical generation resources. The act is set to take effect upon passage, with the appropriations becoming effective on July 1, 2025. The bill also includes provisions for codification and a saving clause to protect existing rights and duties prior to the act's effective date.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 69-8-201
HB0877_1(1): 69-8-201
HB0877_1: 69-8-201