Who Really Pays for Data Centers Powered By Fossil Fuels? 

  • July 23, 2025
870 450 Leah Steinberg

By: Union of Concerned Scientists

This blog from the Union of Concerned Scientists outlines how fossil-fueled data centers threaten energy affordability and the environment. Utilities often build costly gas infrastructure to serve data centers, passing those expenses onto ratepayers—whether or not the projects succeed. The article calls for reforms like dedicated rate structures, stronger regulatory oversight, and greater transparency to ensure that big tech pays its fair share, rather than shifting the burden to everyday customers.

Read the Article