Gov. Shapiro signs executive order putting guardrails on Pennsylvania data centers
Governor Josh Shapiro signed an executive order requiring data center developers in Pennsylvania to meet strict Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) Requirements and secure local approval. This action aims to prevent speculative projects and address concerns from residents regarding environmental impacts, energy costs, and community control. The order was issued after legislative efforts to pass similar requirements failed in the state Senate.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro signed Executive Order 2026-05 on August 18, 2026, implementing strict Responsible Infrastructure Development (GRID) Requirements for all data center project proposals across the Commonwealth. This executive action mandates that developers secure local approval and commit to stringent standards to prevent speculative and irresponsible projects that, according to Shapiro, often lack detailed plans, sufficient financing, or agreements with tech companies.
The Governor's decision follows concerns from Pennsylvania residents regarding potential impacts on communities, energy costs, and the environment due to a surge in over 100 largely speculative data center proposals. Shapiro noted that only five data center projects have obtained necessary permits to operate in the state, with no AI data centers currently active. He criticized some developers for aggressively pushing projects and "bullying local officials."
The executive order directs the Department of Environmental Protection to evaluate permit applications only if developers legally commit to meeting GRID requirements and have local approval. This move comes after the state Senate reportedly refused to bring similar GRID requirements, which had bipartisan House approval, to a vote. Senate Majority Leader allegedly stated no intention to pursue legislative action on data center regulation. The administration has not disclosed the names of the five permitted projects or the speculative proposals.