PA Gov. Shapiro Signs Executive Order Placing Strict Rules on AI Data Centers
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed an Executive Order imposing strict environmental and transparency requirements on AI data centers across the state. The order also mandates local community approval for new developments and requires developers to provide their own power infrastructure. This action aims to address concerns about the rapid increase in speculative data center proposals, electricity grid strain, and environmental impact.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed an Executive Order implementing what he describes as the nation's strictest standards for AI data centers, effective immediately. The order mandates that AI data center developers commit to rigorous environmental and transparency requirements, secure approval from local communities, and supply their own power infrastructure. Additionally, data centers will no longer be part of the state's "Fast Track permit program."
Shapiro stated the executive order is a response to "an unacceptable number of speculative proposals for data center development" that have been