CO SB280

Creates a two-tier certification program for data centers through the Colorado Office of Economic Development: base certification requires $250 million minimum capital investment within 5 years, creation of 25 full-time jobs at 110% of county average wage, and commitments to energy efficiency and clean energy sourcing

Base-certified data centers receive 100% sales and use tax exemption on qualified equipment purchases for 20 years, with potential 10-year extension for projects meeting additional investment and job creation requirements

Enhancement certification (requiring additional $10 million in grid infrastructure investment) provides income tax credits of 10% on grid enhancement investments, plus an additional 5% for investments in rural areas

Data center projects creating "emerging new loads" exceeding 100 megawatts can access expedited resource acquisition processes through the Public Utilities Commission, with utilities able to recover costs through rate adjustments

Certified projects must meet ongoing requirements including annual compliance reporting, water stewardship strategies, participation in workforce development programs, and alignment with utility clean energy plans within 10 years of operation