NC H1002

Prohibits public utilities from passing costs for fuel, generation, and grid upgrades attributable to commercial data centers (facilities with 100+ megawatt peak demand) onto general ratepayers; utilities may only recover these costs directly from the data centers themselves or through prorated charges based on electric demand.

Establishes a 14-member Special Commission for Data Center Planning with appointees from the Governor, legislative leaders, NC Utilities Commission, Secretary of Commerce, and Secretary of Health and Human Services.

Commission must review existing grid capacity, recommend optimal data center locations, and propose grid expansion strategies considering factors like fiber availability, water, labor, and latency requirements.

Commission is required to examine future industry trends including artificial intelligence impacts, survey corporate employers on data center adequacy perceptions, and propose related legislation and budget recommendations.

Commission expires June 30, 2027, and must submit a written report within three months of its final meeting.