Pennsylvania Utility Commission one step closer to increasing consumer protections against data centers
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission unanimously advanced a tentative order that would make new data centers and other large electricity users among the first customers curtailed during grid emergencies if they lack sufficient power supply. The proposal would also prevent utilities from classifying those users as protected critical loads, with public comments due before a final order expected in January.
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission voted unanimously to advance a tentative order aimed at protecting grid reliability as data center development increases electricity demand. Under the proposal, new data centers and other large users without adequate power arrangements could be among the first customers whose service is reduced during supply emergencies, and utilities would not classify them as protected critical loads.
Commission Chairman Stephen DeFrank and Vice Chair Kimberly Barrow cited studies showing that the regional grid could fall short of reliability standards in coming years, with power-shortage risks potentially reaching nearly six times the acceptable level by 2030. The proposal is connected to PJM Interconnection's planned resource-adequacy service, and utilities including Duquesne Light Company and FirstEnergy said they would work with the commission. The public has 30 days to submit comments, and the PUC expects to issue a final order at the end of January.