# Candidates Press Data Centers to Cover Energy Costs

Midterm candidates across party and geographic lines are elevating data centers’ energy and water impacts and generally support requiring data centers to cover their energy use and related strain on electric systems. The issue is expected to shape the federal policy agenda of the 120th Congress when it convenes in January; no legislation or procurement requirement has been enacted in the signal. For procurement professionals, the debate could affect data-center development economics and the cost assumptions behind power and infrastructure projects if Congress advances such requirements.

- Data-center developers, operators, and contractors involved in supporting infrastructure should assess how potential responsibility for energy use and electric-system strain could affect project cost estimates and procurement plans.
- Energy providers and infrastructure suppliers may face changes in project demand or cost allocation if the next Congress pursues legislation; the signal does not specify a proposal, implementation date, or contract opportunity.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology, Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** October 20, 2026

### Government Entities
- United States Congress (Congress)