Energy

Top energy issues to watch in legislatures

In 2026, states will face the challenge of balancing sometimes conflicting priorities.
A data center owned by Amazon Web Services, front right, is under construction next to the Susquehanna nuclear power plant in Berwick, Pa., on Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey)

Affordability, meeting growing electricity demand and managing data center development will drive the energy agenda of most states next year.

A surge in electricity demand, primarily driven by the growing need for the power-hungry data centers needed to advance artificial intelligence, is forcing states to get creative to meet demand and address related repercussions, including rising prices.

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