Contact Congress about S. 4213: Data Center Water and Energy Transparency Act of 2026

Large data centers would have to report their water and power use every year. They would also have to share 5-year forecasts and plans to use less. States or federal agencies could charge fees and fine operators that break the rules.

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Data Center Water and Energy Transparency Act of 2026 is a Senate bill in committee. The latest recorded action: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text: CR S1616-1617).

Latest action on S. 4213: Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text: CR S1616-1617)

Who this affects: This bill mainly affects companies that run or plan large data centers. It also affects states that choose to run their own reporting programs. Federal agencies would run the program in states that do not. Local governments, utilities, nearby residents, and businesses could use the public reports to understand pressure on water, power, and rates.

Why this matters: Data centers can use large amounts of water and electricity, which can strain local systems. This bill would give governments and the public a clearer view of that use. The information could help with planning for power, water, rates, and environmental impacts. The bill does not guarantee changes to siting, utility rules, or company investment choices.

Key provisions in S. 4213

• The bill covers data centers that reach at least 25 megawatts of peak power demand. It applies to current facilities and planned ones.
• Covered data centers must report monthly power use in kilowatt-hours and monthly water use in gallons. They must also list water sources and describe any on-site power made behind the customer meter.
• Data centers must report yearly average power usage effectiveness and water usage effectiveness. These are standard scores for how efficiently a site uses power and water, based on ISO/IEC standards or later replacements.
• Data centers must give 5-year forecasts for power and water use. They must also describe planned efficiency steps and expected savings.
• The bill covers existing data centers and new or expanded ones. New or expanded centers must report before construction or expansion starts.

How Modern Action helps you take action on S. 4213

You do not have to start with a blank letter. Modern Action turns the bill, your position, and the relevant congressional context into a message you can edit and send. The goal is to make contacting Congress clear, specific, and useful without forcing you to parse bill text or figure out the right office on your own.

Questions people ask about S. 4213

What is S. 4213?

Large data centers would have to report their water and power use every year. They would also have to share 5-year forecasts and plans to use less. States or federal agencies could charge fees and fine operators that break the rules.

How do I support or oppose S. 4213?

Choose support, oppose, or ask for changes on Modern Action. The action flow drafts the message for you and keeps the wording tied to this bill.

Who should I contact about S. 4213?

Modern Action uses your location to route the action to the congressional offices relevant to the bill and your representation.

Can Modern Action explain S. 4213 before I act?

Yes. Modern Action gives you a plain-English summary, current status, and action context before you send anything.