Illinois Voters Back Plan to Shift Data Center Energy Costs

Poll finds 75% support for POWER Act after details on costs, clean energy, and community input

Apr. 13, 2026 at 11:10pm

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A minimalist illustration using bold geometric shapes and primary colors to conceptually represent the impact of data centers on energy costs and the need for policy changes.A visual representation of the growing impact of data centers on energy costs and the push for policies to shift more of the burden to the companies operating these facilities.Chicago Today

A new poll of 800 Illinois voters shows strong support for the POWER Act, which would require data centers to cover their own energy and water use and add more community input before projects move forward. The poll found 70% support the bill initially, rising to 75% after details were provided about the costs being passed on to consumers, clean energy requirements, and increased community involvement.

Why it matters

Data centers are using large amounts of power and water, leading to concerns about rising utility bills for Illinois residents. The POWER Act aims to shift more of these costs to the companies operating the data centers rather than passing them on to everyday customers.

The details

The poll, conducted March 16-19, 2026 by Global Strategy Group, found that 52% of voters say rising utility bills are their top concern tied to data centers. These facilities power internet services and AI systems, running nonstop and requiring significant electricity and water for cooling. In some areas, data centers make up about 1% of electricity demand but are linked to a 595% increase in certain capacity costs, totaling around $1.7 billion, most of which is passed to other customers.

  • The poll was conducted March 16-19, 2026.
  • Lawmakers are expected to consider the POWER Act this spring.

The players

POWER Act

Also known as SB4016 and HB5513, the POWER Act would require data centers to cover their own energy and water use, add new clean energy requirements, and increase community input before projects move forward.

Global Strategy Group

The polling firm that conducted the survey of 800 Illinois voters.

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What’s next

Lawmakers are expected to consider the POWER Act this spring.

The takeaway

This poll highlights growing concerns among Illinois voters about the impact of data centers on utility costs and the desire for policies that shift more of the burden to the companies operating these energy-intensive facilities. The POWER Act aims to address these concerns by requiring data centers to cover their own energy and water use, add clean energy, and increase community input.