Why data centers in Pennsylvania are seeing pushback from communities
Pennsylvania communities are increasingly opposing AI-focused data center projects over electricity costs, environmental and health risks, water use, noise, and limited public disclosure. Upper Merion Township rejected five proposed data centers amid strong opposition, while the developer sued; Kline Township supervisors approved an Amazon data center despite resident concerns.
Community groups across Pennsylvania are pushing back against data center development, citing rising electricity costs, air and noise pollution, water consumption, health risks, and opaque negotiations with developers. The article says at least three dozen community groups are opposing or organizing around data center projects statewide, including efforts in Homer City, Limerick Township, Upper Merion Township and Kline Township.
Upper Merion Township supervisors rejected a developer's application for five data centers after residents raised concerns about health, noise, environmental effects and property values. The developer sued to reverse the decision, while opposition remains active. In Limerick Township, a proposed project is still under local review, and Kline Township supervisors approved an Amazon data center in September despite a resident-led campaign and concerns over nondisclosure agreements involving Schuylkill County commissioners.
Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order removing data centers from Pennsylvania's permitting fast-track program and requiring stronger environmental protections and community engagement. Pennsylvania House Democrats have also advanced legislation intended to prevent data center costs from being passed on to residents, but it has not become law.