CO HB1246

Creates a new category of "consumer-regulated electric utilities" defined as electric generation and supply systems built to serve new industrial, commercial, data center, or other nonresidential loads not previously served by existing retail electric providers

Exempts these utilities from Public Utilities Commission regulation, meaning they are not classified as public utilities and the PUC has no jurisdiction over them

Requires consumer-regulated utilities to remain physically islanded from the electric grid; if they choose to interconnect with a regulated public utility's grid, they lose their exempt status and become subject to full PUC regulation

Permits construction and operation of facilities within public rights-of-way, subject to permitting, restoration, and public safety requirements

Maintains requirements for compliance with environmental protection laws, building and fire codes, workplace safety standards, and storm-debris removal obligations