California advances data center bills amid industry opposition

California lawmakers are moving forward with legislation to regulate data center development despite pushback from the industry, citing concerns about rising electricity prices and pollution in the state.

First covered Aug 18, 2026 · 12:30 AM PT · 1 article · no longer in the live window

California advances data center bills amid industry opposition — Image via canarymedia.com

Coverage

46d Canary Media Major data center bills advance in California despite industry pushback — California, with its sky-high electricity prices, isn’t facing the same influx of data centers that many other states are.

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More coverage from around the web

afslaw.com State Regulation of Data Centers in 2026 – A Shifting Landscape | ArentFox Schiff

agri-pulse.com California lawmakers consider strict controls on data centers | Agri-Pulse Communications, Inc.

morganlewis.com California Takes a ‘Study First’ Approach to Data Center Regulation

legiscan.com Bill Text: CA SB57 | 2025-2026 | Regular Session | Amended | LegiScan

mayerbrown.com Proposed California Legislation Aims to Reshape Land Use Approvals for Data Centers and Renewable Energy and Storage Projects | Insights | Mayer Brown

Discussion

Bluesky: @jeffstjohn.bsky.social Jeff St. John · 46d ago · 4 ♥ Californians are fed up with rising electricity costs, and they don't want data centers to push them even higher. So says the state senator pushing two bills meant to keep data center costs off utility bills and spur builders to opt for clean energy:…

Appeared in: 2026-08-18 (#1) · 2026-08-19 (#7)

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