Part I
Enacts GS 62-159.3 (Prohibit cost recovery for data centers), which prohibits public utilities from passing on costs incurred for electric service to commercial data centers to ratepayers. Allows public utilities to make rates or charges solely applicable to commercial data centers for the costs that are not permitted in general rates. Defines commercial data center as a facility, campus of facilities, or array of interconnected facilities in this state that is used by an entity or other business enterprise to operate, manage, or maintain a computer, group of computers, or other organized assembly of hardware and software for the primary purpose of processing, storing, retrieving, or transmitting data and has a peak demand of 100 megawatts or greater.
Part II
Creates a 14-member Special Commission for Data Center Planning and provides for appointment of members by the Governor, legislative leaders, and ex-officio members. Directs the commission to review electricity supply and grid conditions and make recommendations on expanding capacity and generation to serve data center needs. Also directs the commission to consider future trends and corporate needs, and propose legislation and budget recommendations as necessary. Directs state agencies to cooperate with the commission’s requests for information. Permits the commission to enter into contracts, establish rules and procedures, hold public hearings, and request public testimony and production of documents as necessary for its duties.
Directs that the commission submit a written report to the Governor, legislative leadership, and the North Carolina Utilities Commission no later than three months after the date of the last meeting.
Specifies that Part II expires June 30, 2027, and the commission is abolished on that date.