LINCOLN — A panel of Nebraska lawmakers heard three energy-related proposals as the state grapples with rising power demands driven by data centers, artificial intelligence and other large utility users. Omaha Sen. Machaela Cavanaugh’s LB1111 would require data centers to cover the full cost of their electricity use, disclose plans to neighbors and shield other ratepayers from higher costs. Lincoln Sen. Eliot Bostar’s LB1064 would give public power districts more pricing flexibility, require impact studies and allow utilities to curb usage during grid emergencies. Meanwhile, Gov. Jim Pillen has backed separate legislation aimed at reducing red tape for major power users that want to generate and sell their own energy.

A third proposal from Kearney Sen. Stan Clouse, LB1204, focused on renewable energy and drew intense opposition. The bill would adjust the nameplate capacity tax on wind and solar projects to send a much larger share of revenue to counties, which Clouse said could incentivize development if local governments opt in. Renewable energy representatives supported the measure, but many rural residents voiced strong resistance to wind turbines and solar farms, citing concerns about disruption to landscapes, wildlife and local control. The committee took no immediate action after lengthy testimony.

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