Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro takes a hard line against data centers
Pennsylvania's Governor Josh Shapiro has implemented updated guidelines for data center development. Companies are now required to obtain local approvals and adhere to defined developmental standards. These projects have been taken out of the state's expedited permitting process, enabling local communities to have a significant say in project decisions. Governor Shapiro expressed that this step…
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has implemented new restrictions on data center projects within the state. Companies are now required to seek local approval for such projects and will no longer be eligible for Pennsylvania's fast-track permitting program. Governor Shapiro stated that he has "heard loud and clear from the good people of Pennsylvania" and will not allow developers or technology companies to proceed with projects without local consent.
The governor emphasized that Pennsylvania has a history of industry running roughshod over communities and vowed to put an end to this trend.
Under the new executive order, developers must also sign a legally binding agreement committing to certain requirements, including paying for their own power, hiring locally, maintaining transparency with local governments, and adhering to water-conservation standards. Furthermore, data center projects will no longer qualify for the fast-track permitting program, and developers will be required to disclose more information during the approval process.
Shapiro's decision to take a hard line against data center development is a shift from his earlier stance, which he had argued would play a role in artificial intelligence development. However, recent opposition from residents and local officials, concerned about electricity costs, water use, environmental effects, and changes to the character of communities, has influenced his position. Governor Shapiro acknowledged that conversations with residents have played a role in his decision.
The new regulations have put local officials back in charge of approving data center projects, and Pennsylvania's divided Legislature has failed to move forward with new data center regulations. As a result, Shapiro resorted to using executive authority to establish requirements for future projects. He described some developers as "speculators" and accused them of pressuring township officials and residents to change the character of communities.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
