PJM Data Center Waiver Raises Health Concerns in Heat Wave
A federal order has temporarily allowed data centers on the PJM electric grid to use backup power during a heat wave. PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center opposes this waiver, citing concerns about increased diesel pollution and potential health risks for communities. This decision highlights the ongoing tension between rapidly increasing data center power demand and public health concerns related to backup generation.
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright approved a federal order allowing data centers on the PJM electric grid to utilize backup power during a recent heat wave, from July 1 through July 3. This decision has drawn strong opposition from the PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center, which warned that the temporary waiver could significantly increase diesel pollution during the July 4th holiday weekend.
The waiver was issued during a period of extreme heat across the Midwest and East Coast, where electricity demand typically surges due to increased air conditioning use. PennEnvironment argues that allowing data centers to rely on diesel-powered backup generators could worsen air quality in nearby and downwind communities.
David Masur, executive director of PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center, emphasized the public health risk, stating that Americans should not face the choice between enjoying the holiday and being exposed to pollution from data center generators. The group cited a May 2026 report by Environment America Research & Policy Center, which questioned the prudence of allowing large electricity users to shift to diesel systems during periods of grid stress.
The order underscores a growing conflict between the escalating power demands of data centers and public health concerns associated with backup generation, particularly during critical periods like extreme weather events that strain electricity systems.