Weekly Climate Action Brief Highlights Data Center Costs and Clean Energy Push
LCV's weekly climate action roundup for September 25, 2026 focuses on efforts to curb climate-warming data center growth and rising energy bills. It contrasts those efforts with support for oil and gas interests, and includes quotes from advocates and officials. The brief also notes New York Governor Kathy Hochul's nearly $1 billion Sustainable Future Program investment to reduce heating costs and modernize energy infrastructure.
The weekly brief ties data-center expansion to household energy costs, noting LCV Victory Fund ads target six House Republicans over a tax incentive for data centers. It also cites Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer responding to an Anti-Corruption Working Group report, saying oil profits contrast with families’ bills.
In New York, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s nearly $1 billion Sustainable Future Program includes $500 million for building decarbonization and $300 million for renewables, alongside clean schools, agriculture, forestry, and public lands. Her CHARGE agenda would require data centers to supply their own power or pay higher rates. Ohio’s Oak Run Solar, an 800 MW project with 300 MW storage, won approval after delays.
The proposals could affect New York households facing heating and electric bills, data-center operators, and clean-energy developers. If data centers must cover more of their power costs, ratepayers may see less upward pressure, though grid upgrades and siting debates could still create local tensions. Ohio’s solar approval may support renewable investment, storage capacity, and related jobs. The ad campaign could influence how voters in targeted races weigh energy affordability and data-center incentives.