Governor Josh Shapiro Expected to Restrict Data Center Development in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is enacting a sweeping executive order that dramatically restricts data center development in the state. This marks a significant shift from his previous support for such projects. The order will require local approval for data center projects to receive state permits, which is expected to block many developments.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is implementing a sweeping executive order aimed at dramatically restricting data center development across the state. This move represents a major change from his earlier stance, where he championed data center growth, including a fast-track permitting initiative and a $20 billion commitment from Amazon for data centers in Bucks and Luzerne counties.
The executive order, while not imposing an explicit moratorium, will necessitate local approval for projects to secure state permits, a measure expected to impede many new developments. The announcement comes as opposition to data centers reaches a high point, with Shapiro joining other bipartisan governors in efforts to slow or halt such projects. The host of the show, Rob Pratte, acknowledged the political sensitivity of the issue, recognizing both the concerns from residents regarding increased electricity bills and the economic opportunities for union workers in the building trades.