Green group calls for halt to data centers in Pa. until new laws are passed

The environmental advocacy group PennFuture is urging Pennsylvania lawmakers to enact a statewide moratorium on new data center construction, citing concerns that current state laws are inadequate to protect public natural resources, prevent utility customer subsidies, and ensure sufficient power and renewable energy sources for these facilities. The group highlights that over 20 proposed "hyperscale" data centers in the state could consume as much water and energy as small cities, with one facility in Springdale potentially drawing power equivalent to 140,000 homes. PennFuture argues that data centers are being built faster than local governments can implement necessary protective ordinances and update zoning regulations. This call for a moratorium is echoed by other groups, including Food and Water Watch, who previously sought a national pause. In response to these concerns, State Sen. Katie Muth (D-Montgomery) plans to introduce a bill for a three-year data center moratorium in Pennsylvania. State Rep. Jamie Walsh (R-Luzerne) is also developing legislation to enhance transparency and protect ratepayers. Furthermore, the House recently passed a bill from Rep. Rob Matzie (D-Beaver) that mandates data centers cover grid connection costs and contribute to utility assistance programs, which now moves to the state Senate. Earlier in the month, a House committee advanced two other measures to establish reporting standards for water and energy use and assist municipalities in preparing for data center development.