King of Prussia Residents Oppose Proposed Data Center Project
Residents in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, are strongly opposing a proposed data center by MLP Ventures due to concerns over massive electricity and water consumption, potential for sinkholes, and noise pollution. The project is facing significant local backlash, including a viral social media campaign and an upcoming planning committee meeting. Opponents claim the project's timing was intended to bypass newer township regulations.
A proposed AI data center by Philadelphia-area real estate firm MLP Ventures in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, is facing fierce opposition from local residents, spearheaded by community member Laura. Concerns are mounting over the project's significant environmental and quality-of-life impacts, drawing comparisons to the scale of the Philadelphia airport in a small suburb.
Residents highlight that the data center would consume 19 times the electricity of the entire Upper Merion Township and raise questions about its undisclosed water sourcing for cooling and waste disposal, particularly near the Schuylkill River, which supplies drinking water to Philadelphia. Additionally, the area's limestone geology poses a risk of increased sinkholes if extensive water usage occurs. Opponents also allege that the project proposal was submitted before new Upper Merion Township ordinances and regulations were in place, suggesting an attempt to bypass zoning and environmental protections.
Despite widespread support for AI data center development from political leaders like Governor Josh Shapiro, Senator Dave McCormick, and both the Biden and Trump administrations, residents are pushing back. They argue that the economic benefits are outweighed by the local environmental damage and lack of transparency regarding the centers' operations and specific inhabitants. The article cites a 2024 Department of Energy report indicating US data centers use 17 billion gallons of water annually, exacerbating fears of resource depletion.
Community efforts include a viral social media post, organized groups, and a petition. The article draws parallels to a successful community pushback in New Brunswick, which led to the cancellation of a similar project. Residents are urged to attend an upcoming Upper Merion Planning Committee meeting on May 27th to voice their concerns and contribute to stopping the project.