Climate watch: Growing opposition to data centers in Pennsylvania
A recent Quinnipiac University poll indicates growing opposition to AI data centers among Pennsylvania voters. In response, Governor Josh Shapiro issued an executive order requiring data center developers to meet specific standards for energy affordability, community engagement, economic development, and environmental protection to obtain state permits. The Department of Environmental Protection has also launched a data center permit tracker.
A new Quinnipiac University poll reveals increasing opposition to AI data centers among Pennsylvania voters, with 74% now against such facilities in their communities, up from 68% in February. This growing sentiment coincides with recent actions by Governor Josh Shapiro, who in August issued an executive order mandating that data center developers adhere to strict standards for energy affordability, community engagement, economic development, and environmental protection. Failure to meet these criteria will result in the commonwealth withholding necessary building and operating permits.
Following the governor's directive, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has introduced an online "data center permit tracker" to enhance transparency. The article also touches on broader energy policy, noting that while community solar projects are legal in 44 states, Pennsylvania has yet to pass enabling legislation, with a relevant bill stalled in the Republican-controlled Senate. Environmental advocacy groups like PennFuture have put forth recommendations for the state's energy future, including a 35% renewable energy mandate and promoting solar development on large rooftops. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is considering ending a rule that limits road building and logging on national forest land, including Pennsylvania's Allegheny National Forest.