Kentucky Utilities and Louisville Gas and Electric are seeking approval to spend up to $3B to build the plants, with an eye towards supplying power to the facilities that are driving artificial intelligence services.
Public comment drew speakers with a variety of worries from the possible cost to ratepayers to the effect on the environment.
"I am being asked to pay for power generation construction that may not be needed at all so that large corporations can build out a technology that will take away the jobs my children and grandchildren need," one speaker said.
The comments come as Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman is applauding a recent proposed settlement with utilities that scraps a battery storage plant, extends the life of two coal fired power plants, and includes a special rate for data center customers — pieces that the Republican official said are more in line with President Donald Trump's energy agenda and will protect ratepayers.