Senate Bill 729 introduces a series of regulations and requirements aimed at large energy customers and data centers in Wisconsin. The bill defines a "data center" and establishes criteria for large energy customers, which include those with significant energy demands. It mandates that laborers and mechanics involved in constructing or refurbishing large-scale data centers be paid prevailing wages or higher if covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Additionally, the bill requires data centers to meet specific sustainable design standards and mandates reporting on water usage and energy consumption. It also establishes a fee structure for large energy customers based on their peak electricity demand, with funds allocated to support renewable energy initiatives and public benefits programs.

Furthermore, the bill requires the Public Service Commission (PSC) to create a definition for a "very large customer class" and to ensure that electric utilities offer a renewable resource tariff to commercial and industrial customers. This tariff must allow customers to choose renewable energy sources while ensuring that costs are fairly allocated. The bill also includes provisions for quarterly reporting by energy utilities on data center energy usage and mandates that the PSC publish aggregate data from these reports. Overall, the legislation aims to promote renewable energy use, ensure fair labor practices, and enhance transparency in energy consumption by large customers and data centers.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 16.957(2)(d)3, 16.957, 25.96