Rep. Mark Chapman, R-Broken Arrow, this week led an interim study examining the benefits, costs and long-term impacts of data center development in Oklahoma. The study was held before the House Energy and Natural Resources Oversight Committee's Utilities Subcommittee, where Chapman serves as vice chair.

During his opening remarks, Chapman said he wanted the discussion to move beyond some of the strong opinions surrounding data centers and give lawmakers an opportunity to look at the issue from multiple perspectives. He encouraged committee members to consider both the potential benefits and costs and allow the information presented during the study to

guide future discussions.

"For the past year, I've heard a lot of discussions and concerns about data centers, and I felt it was time to lay the cards on the table and look at this issue as objectively as we can," Chapman said. "There are potential opportunities, but there are also legitimate questions about infrastructure, resources and the effects on communities. We need to understand what communities may be saying yes to, what they may be saying no to and what safeguards need to be in place."

Much of the study focused on how data centers affect utility planning and local resources. Speakers discussed the large power needs of newer facilities, safeguards intended to keep project costs with the customers creating them and how water use can vary depending on a facility’s design and cooling technology.

The discussion also covered permitting and community impacts, including infrastructure needs and potential economic and workforce opportunities. Speakers noted that oversight can involve different state and local authorities depending on the project.

They also discussed ways to better connect existing resources so communities can more easily evaluate proposed projects and understand potential impacts.

Chapman said he will continue reviewing information gathered during the study to determine whether additional legislative action is warranted.