Data center makers host town hall with residents

Keel Infrastructure, a company proposing a multi-billion dollar data center in Sharon, Pennsylvania, held the first of several town hall meetings with local residents. The project, which would be the largest Sharon has ever seen, aims to address community questions and concerns about its potential impact. During the meeting, Keel's CEO informed attendees they plan to invest $40 million into upgrading the local power systems to support the data center. However, the company could not allay resident concerns about their personal electricity bills, stating that rates would be determined by Pen Power. The $5 billion facility is expected to create hundreds of construction jobs, with a focus on local union workers, and will require 134 permanent local hires once operational. Keel representatives emphasized their desire to bring jobs and economic development without negative community outcomes. Residents voiced concerns about potential noise pollution, particularly from homes situated across the river from the proposed site. Keel representatives responded by explaining they are conducting studies on ambient noise levels in the city and will incorporate design elements into the building to mitigate noise. The company is currently awaiting several permits and must conduct soil and noise tests before construction can begin. If all necessary approvals and tests proceed as planned, Keel Infrastructure anticipates starting construction in October.