Data center opponents welcome Shapiro’s order but question its timing
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued an executive order requiring data center developers to meet new standards and receive local approvals before DEP permitting, also removing data centers from a fast-track program. The order is supported by project opponents and environmental advocates, though some wish the action had come sooner and advocate for additional legislative protections. Opponents of the PAX-1 data center, currently facing legal challenges, view the order as an opportunity for local officials to reconsider the project.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has issued an executive order that mandates data center developers meet his proposed GRID standards or secure local approvals before their permitting applications are considered by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The DEP has also ceased fast-tracking data center permits.
The executive action has garnered support from data center opponents and environmental groups, although some express concerns about its timing and call for additional legislative safeguards. Andrew Dymski of Middlesex Township, who has been involved in legal challenges against the proposed PAX-1 data center in Cumberland County, welcomed the order but wished it had been enacted earlier, especially before construction began on the site. Dymski believes the order offers the Middlesex Township Board of Supervisors an opportunity to re-evaluate its stance on the PAX-1 project.
Katie Blume of Conservation Voters of Pennsylvania praised the order as a positive initial step, advocating for state lawmakers to implement stronger protections for communities affected by data center development. She emphasized that while zoning is a tool, more comprehensive guardrails are needed. Republican Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman of Indiana County characterized Shapiro's move as reactive, suggesting the governor's previous support for AI and data centers had attracted "irresponsible speculators." Meanwhile, Democratic state Rep. Nate Davidson, D-Harrisburg, noted that Senate Republicans would need to compromise for any data center legislation to advance in the upcoming General Assembly session.