Gov. Jim Pillen says Nebraska is taking a major step toward meeting future energy needs while protecting electricity customers from rising costs. At a bill signing ceremony Tuesday, Pillen joined lawmakers and public power officials to celebrate the passage of LB 1261, legislation designed to address the growing demand for electricity from large industrial users, including potential data centers and advanced manufacturing projects.
Under the new law, private companies seeking massive amounts of power can finance and develop generation facilities tied to their projects, rather than shifting those costs to Nebraska’s public power utilities and their customers.
State Sen. Mike Jacobson of North Platte, who introduced the measure, said the legislation ensures everyday Nebraskans won’t be left paying for infrastructure needed by major power consumers. Sen. Mike Moser, who designated the bill as a priority measure, said the law also gives public power providers greater flexibility when negotiating with large energy users and helps protect ratepayers if projects are delayed or fail to materialize.
Public power leaders praised the legislation, saying it strikes a balance between encouraging economic development and maintaining Nebraska’s longstanding commitment to affordable electricity. Pillen said the measure strengthens Nebraska’s ability to attract emerging industries while keeping costs under control for existing customers, calling the state “open for business” and prepared for future growth.