An Outpouring of Frustration Over Pennsylvania’s Rapid Data Center Growth

An online town hall meeting in Pennsylvania recently underscored widespread public discontent regarding the state's burgeoning data center industry. Over 20 speakers, addressing an audience of 225, voiced concerns ranging from rising electricity prices and heavy water usage to noise pollution and unchecked rural industrialization, particularly criticizing state management of this rapid growth. Jennifer Dusart, a resident of Mechanicsburg, echoed sentiments of a "public trust and transparency issue," noting that citizens often learn about projects only after decisions have been finalized. Karen Feridun of the Better Path Coalition, the event's organizer, highlighted the rapid expansion of the Pennsylvania Data Center Resistance Facebook group, which has grown to over 12,000 members since January. Kelly Donia from East Whiteland Township expressed her personal disillusionment with Governor Josh Shapiro's pro-data center stance, despite her previous support. Governor Shapiro's administration, while acknowledging the economic benefits of data centers, stated its commitment to protecting communities by setting strict expectations for transparency, environmental protection, and community impact for companies seeking state support. These standards, proposed in February as part of his budget address, include requirements for new data centers to either provide their own power or fully fund their grid and transmission infrastructure needs. Legislative efforts were also discussed, with State Senator Katie Muth announcing plans to introduce a bill for a three-year moratorium on data center development, allowing time for comprehensive study and planning. State Representative Jamie Walsh criticized existing tax breaks that he believes are making Pennsylvania a prime target for developers, particularly compared to Virginia's tax structure. Colby Wesner of Concerned Citizens of Montour County, an activist group that previously blocked a data center, expressed skepticism about House Bill 2151, which would mandate state officials draft a model ordinance for towns, fearing it would ultimately serve developers' interests. Michael Sauers from Bloomsburg advocated for strengthening the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code to empower local communities to resist unwanted development.