Voice of Westmoreland, concerned about data centers, hosts first of 3 workshops in New Kensington
Voice of Westmoreland is hosting public workshops in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, to educate residents about local data center projects in Springdale and Upper Burrell. The group aims to rally community members to voice concerns to local officials, highlighting potential environmental impacts and increased electricity demand. This initiative reflects mounting local opposition to data center expansion in the Alle-Kiski Valley.
The nonprofit Voice of Westmoreland is actively organizing a series of public workshops in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, to inform and mobilize residents against proposed data center projects in the nearby Alle-Kiski Valley, specifically in Springdale and Upper Burrell. The group aims to educate the community on the broader data center industry and encourage them to vocalize their concerns to local officials.
During the initial workshop held at Lost Dreams Awakening, approximately 25 attendees heard presentations highlighting the significant energy consumption of hyperscale data centers and potential environmental impacts. Mara Sakaluk, a Lower Burrell resident, expressed fears about local water contamination, citing an incident at a Meta data center in Wyoming where wastewater affected a recycling facility. Mackenzie Fangman, a Voice of Westmoreland organizer, also referenced a $6.3 billion cost increase in the PJM interstate energy grid auction, attributed largely to data center demand.
Community members like Arlene Mercurio of New Kensington voiced desires for land to be used for manufacturing to create more jobs, viewing data centers as an "extractive industry" that offers fewer local benefits. Mercurio also advocated for greater transparency from local governments regarding discussions with data center developers to allow for more public input. Dylan Belmont, living near the Upper Burrell project, appreciated the opportunity to connect with others who share his concerns. Voice of Westmoreland plans two additional workshops in August to continue engaging both residents and business owners.