Pennsylvania’s data center boom, by the numbers
News ClipSpotlight PA·PA·3/13/2026
The article discusses the ongoing debate in Pennsylvania over the influx of data center developments in the state. It covers concerns about the high energy and water usage of these data centers, as well as the potential economic benefits in terms of jobs and tax revenue. The article also mentions proposed legislation and policy measures, including a moratorium and new regulations, that policymakers are considering to address these issues. The article provides relevant data points, such as the number of proposed and active data centers in the state, public opinion polling, and the projected loss in tax revenue from a data center tax exemption. It also highlights major data center investments by companies like Amazon Web Services.
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Amazon
Gov: Public Utility Commission, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is experiencing a boom in data center development, with 53 proposed new centers and 52 already active. While some see the potential for job creation and economic benefits, there are also concerns about the high energy and water usage of these facilities driving up utility prices and straining the electric grid. Policymakers are debating how to best regulate the industry, with proposals ranging from economic incentives for community-minded developers to a moratorium on new development. A recent poll found that 42% of Pennsylvanians do not want a data center in or near their community, and over 70% are concerned about the energy and water usage. Meanwhile, the Shapiro administration projects the state could lose $2 billion in tax revenue by 2031 due to a tax exemption for data centers, while Amazon Web Services plans to invest $20 billion in the state over the next decade.