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Author: Paul Arbaje, The Equation

close up shot of a computer screen

Policymakers must act to protect Louisianans from billions in data center-driven costs

April 21, 2026 Updated April 21, 2026
close up of computer hardware

Louisiana’s “Lightning Amendment” quietly shifts AI data-center costs onto your electric bill

February 18, 2026 Updated April 17, 2026
Data centers are created by the nation’s wealthiest companies, like Meta. But in Louisiana, utility billpayers could cover up to 75% of AI data-center costs, thanks to a fast-track policy quietly passed by Louisiana regulators.

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