North Carolina Data Center Regulation Bill SB 730 Criticized for Weak Protections and Carbon Goal Loopholes

North Carolina's Senate Bill 730 aims to regulate data centers but critics say it falls short. The bill lacks enforceable water use limits, keeps tax incentives for data centers, and includes loopholes that could undermine the state's 2050 carbon reduction goals. It allows Duke Energy to extend deadlines for carbon compliance and requires nuclear plant approval before retiring fossil fuel plants, potentially prolonging coal and gas pollution. Communities across the state have opposed data centers due to concerns about water consumption, energy costs, and pollution. The article notes that 23 jurisdictions have rejected data centers entirely. A proposed alternative is a two-year moratorium on new data centers, similar to efforts in 14 other states. The piece argues that SB 730 offers only the appearance of protection while leaving ratepayers and the environment vulnerable.